4 blade prop help

[upton621]

I have a 1999 19.5 foot bayliner capri with a 3.0l merc and it currently has a 14 1/4 3 blade 19p prop it is currently running at upper end of rpm range 4800 I am wanting a 4 blade for better water sports performance i am wondering if i should stay at 19p 4 blade or go to 18p 4 blade any opinions would be great thanks

 

[SkiDad]

Re: 4 blade prop help

i would say 19p to be safe. I think the 18p would over-rev 100-200 rpm - if you go that route you would just have to watch it especially if you are a new boater.

I plan on trying a 4 blade this summer too - i plan on dropping 2 pitches b/c I have some rpm to work with but since you are at the top you probably shouldn't drop pitch.

are you having trouble getting a slalom skier up ? If you are just pulling people on 2 skis or wakeboards you should be fine with your current prop.

 

[wrench 3]

Re: 4 blade prop help

My prop guy says to go from a 19 to a 17 when you go from a three to four blade. So I think you would be OK with an 18. But can you find a place that will let you try them out?

 

[fishrdan]

Re: 4 blade prop help

I'd go with the 18P 4 blade....