2 blade or 3 blade what are advantages

[Moody Blue]

Bought an 80hp Merc that comes with 2 props.

First is a 3 blade 12.75 dia x 17" pitch, other is 2 blade 13 dia x 20" pitch.

Motor will be going onto an older 15.5ft deep v hull.

Looking for a general purpose prop, a little fishing, a little cruising and a little water skiing.

Are either of these props suitable? WHat is the advantage of 2 blades over 3?

 

[Bondo]

Re: 2 blade or 3 blade what are advantages

Ayuh,....

2 bladed props haven't been built for those motors since the 1960s....
It's an Antique....

You can use whichever 1 works for You...

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: 2 blade or 3 blade what are advantages

I have the original 1971 sales brochure/catalog from Mercury on all of there marine products. There is a listing for all the props that were available for the various motors of that year. About half are 2 blade and half are 3 blade.

What it does not explain is why you would choose one over the other.

There must be some reason why both were available.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 2 blade or 3 blade what are advantages

There must be some reason why both were available.

Ayuh,.... Other than is was the transition period,...??....

You Can't buy a New 2 bladed prop,....They're All 3 or more blades today.....

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: 2 blade or 3 blade what are advantages

I guess the only thing to do then is try them both and see what performs better.