props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

[Sea Hawk]

Just considering getting a stainless prop soon. I have a 22 ft. walkaround with a 225 merc. I can run about 45 mph at wide open (5300rpm) depending on winds, tides and water conditions. What, besides durability will I gain by going to a stainless prop?

 

[ob]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

many stainless props are double cupped for better performace.being heavier there is also some inertia factors that cut the water with less drag.stay within a pitch that allows motor to operate at it optimal rpm range .D on't expect huge performance gains but overall I think you will notice some improvement.

 

[John H1]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

Stainless on bigger engines hold their shape, aluminum looses their cup at high r’s. There is a report you can read on this on one of the prop makers web-site, can’t remember which one. Go to a good prop shop to get it propped out, as there is a whole lot of ones to chose from, and the right one can make a difference as well as the wrong one goes in the opposite….

 

[Reel Appeal]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

SeaHawk,<br />SS props are more durable obviosly.They usually have thinner blades than aluminum and don't ding easily.The thinner blades mean less drag.They look nice too.With this in mind.<br />One disadvantage is if you have a high speed prop strike.The stainless prop may transmit more of the force of the strike to the lower unit/prop shaft w/possible damage.The aluminum prop absorbs impact better although the SS prop will fluff off low speed hits with minimal(if any)damage.Personally,I use an aluminum prop on my Johnson 225/22.2 Aquasport.Also,if you go stainless,consider a prop lock for your investment.

 

[BillP]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

If you take identical props, one aluminum and one stainless...the thin stainless will turn more rpms. <br /><br />Over time your alum may get dinged when the ss won't. This leads to less performance which you may see in fuel consumption. <br /><br />I run aluminum on the small motors and ss on bigger ones. Can't afford ss for everything but it is without a doubt higher performance.

 

[snapperbait]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

Even if you gain no performance the durability is worth the price.. A 4 blade prop might bite better in rough conditions...Just a thought..

 

[Solittle]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

Theft can be a problem as pointed out by Reel Appeal. I take it one step further. I take mine off when I get home.<br /><br />Had a neighbor - he had two stainless props stolen within three months. To make matters worse the thiefs took the outdrives that the props were attached to. His insurance promptly canceled.

 

[Sea Hawk]

Re: props....stainless vs. aluminum..... how big a difference?

I thank all of you for your input. I guess I have a little thinking to do. I have several reasons to go with either prop. For example, I do run in shallow waters a lot, and am affraid of the impact factor of a stainless prop. At the same time, since I run in those shallows, I am getting tired of grinding down aluminum props every time I come across a little sandbar. I guess I'll just have to have both and decide on a day by day basis which to use. I have all winter to think about it. Thanks again folks, and happy boating. <br /><br />P.S. I also firmly agree with the prop lock idea. A stainless prop is like leaving a brand new $400.00 stereo in a jeep with no top. It's only a matter of time before it belongs to someone else.