4 blade vs 3 ?????

georgiaboy

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Dec 3, 2006
Messages
148
I just swapped motors on my boat and the new one has an adjustable 4 blade pro. Would I be better of with a plain 3 blade and how big? Motor is a Merc Classic 50 45hp 1987 model.
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: 4 blade vs 3 ?????

Can't tell. We have no idea what boat, what current performance is (speed and RPM), and what you are trying to accomplish. Boats don't have transmissions so the prop needs to do that job. If you want speed -- think three blade. If you want hole shot and smoothness, think four blade. Changing props is not just a "I want a four blade" or "I want a stainless" decision. Those changes are made for a reason. Stainless for durability and efficiency. Aluminum is less costly and less apt to ruin a lower unit if you strike a rock, stump, etc. We need some wide open throttle and speed measurements to help you. Acceptable hole shot is whatever the seat of your pants tells you. Top speed is whatever the speedometer registers. Speed and hole shot are a compromise when it comes to prop selection so you need to determine what characteristics you want when making those decisionis.
 

georgiaboy

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Dec 3, 2006
Messages
148
Re: 4 blade vs 3 ?????

I will test it when I return to the lake. I use myboat for neighter hole shot or speed. just seemed to me there is no reason to have a 4 blade prop. Maybe I should sell it and get an extra al. 3 blade.
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: 4 blade vs 3 ?????

Props are not exactly inexpensive so if you are not interested in hole shot or speed, why even bother changing it? If you are happy with the way it pushes the boat leave things as they are. If the engine is being lugged at WOT or over reving at WOT however, it behooves you to make a change.
 

georgiaboy

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Dec 3, 2006
Messages
148
Re: 4 blade vs 3 ?????

the 4 blade is adjustable so come suitable weather I will check it out--thanks
 
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