4 blade prop vs 3 blade

[hads]

I have a 1992 18' 3 liter 120hp bayliner (mercury apha one sterndrive)with the original 19 pitch 3 blade prop. In 1992 it was stuggle to get up on one ski and now with an extra 20 pounds its a no go. What would the best prop to go to that would be in spec for my boat . PS I don't have enough time to lose the wieght this summer.

 

[jedimaster]

Re: 4 blade prop vs 3 blade

Without knowing what RPM's your running at WOT, a 4 blade 17 pitch should make a big difference.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: 4 blade prop vs 3 blade

A lot will depend on what 4 blade prop you use. You'll need one that's designed specifically for a sterndrive. If you bought something that was designed for outboards it may not work very well. It's easy to raise an outboard to increase the X dimension, it's a little more involved to raise a sterndrive.

Since it'll be used specifically for skiing rather than cruising we're not so concerned with the top rpms. Assuming the top rpms are right with the prop you have, going to the same style & design 17 3 blade should increase your pulling power enough to get you up. When looking for a 4 blade prop try to get one that is designed to run fairly deep in the water rather than one designed to run at or close to the surface.