3 Blade or 4 Blade props..... which is better???

[brianmerc]

I've always wanted to know... I want to get a 4 blade. Is there pro's and cons for the two?

 

[mellowyellow]

Re: 3 Blade or 4 Blade props..... which is better???

more blades, more dig(holeshot), and more drag<br />(top end speed).<br />BTW, my orig. prop was a 2 blade ('70 merc1150)<br />good luck,<br />M.Y.

 

[james1]

Re: 3 Blade or 4 Blade props..... which is better???

Have never run 4bladers myself,but I know a few guys who have started using them in the past few years and they all swear that they have better fuel consumption and better overall performance.Keep in mind that they all have fairly heavy boats that have to carry a fair load.<br /><br />Give them a try

 

[Dhadley]

Re: 3 Blade or 4 Blade props..... which is better???

A good 4 blade will run at a higher X dimension than a compareable 3 blade. That will most likely translate to better holeshot, better top end and better cruising.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[neumanns]

Re: 3 Blade or 4 Blade props..... which is better???

Does any one know of a conversion chart from 3 to four blade.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: 3 Blade or 4 Blade props..... which is better???

I've never seen a chart that covers all makes and styles. We have always gone by testing and experience. <br /><br />It mostly depends on your existing set up. Including hull design and gearcase shape. We always start by figuring slip % on what a given boat is running now and work from there to reduce slip.<br /><br />Good luck!