whats the difference?

[missouri champion]

I am considering a new prop for my 84 champ w/ 84 merc 150. Just curious what the difference is between a 3 blade and a 4 blade. besides the obvious, how does the performance differ? I have a 24p ss 3 blade that is damaged and need to get it fixed but I would also like to buy another for a spare or just different performance. What is the major difference between manufacturers? Is any one better than the other? do you generealy get what you pay for? What are the options for the hub? My current setup runs about 5100 rpms wot, which i feel is a little slow. Holeshot could be better also. What would you reccomend? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: whats the difference?

Welcome to iboats.

In general, a 3-blade is faster than a 4-blade.
In general, a 4-blade has a quicker holeshot than a 3-blade.
In most cases, you can mount the motor higher with a 4-blade than with a 3-blade.
That can make the boat run faster than it would with a 3-blade and motor mounted lower.
In most cases, a 4-blade will reduce chinewalk significantly over a 3-blade.

When you get your 24 rebuilt, have it repitched to a 23. That will get you more RPMs which means more Horsepower which could mean more Speed and should give you better Holeshot.

Stainless prop performance varies greatly between manufacturers and types. It's hard to pin-down which would be best for you. Mercury Trophy and Laser props are some of my favorite choices, but others work very nicely too. Even the oft-maligned Ballistic props.

Don't be afraid to shoot for 6,000 RPMs with that motor. They like 6,000 far more than 5,000.

 

[missouri champion]

Re: whats the difference?

Thanks for the info!