5 blade prop on a 3.0 Alpha One.

[BLD]

I would like to upgrade the prop on my boat so that we can wakeboard/tow better. I have a 1992 Bayliner Capri Classic 1950 with a '92 Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha One. It has a 19 Pitch aluminum 3 blade prop that at WOT Yields about 4200-4300 RPM and 35-38 MPH. This is with 4 or 5 people on board. The manufacture lists 4200-4600 for WOT.

I'm thinking about a Mercury High 5 in a 19 Pitch. Will this give me a better hole shot and make it easier to keep the boat on plane (and at a lower speed)?

If it helps, our bowrider shows a maximum capacity of 7 people and 1050 lbs.

Thanks.

 

[Robbabob]

Re: 5 blade prop on a 3.0 Alpha One.

Hi BLD,

You usually want to reduce pitch 1" for every added blade as the prop becomes more efficient (more use of HP and reduce rpm on you). Might even consider dropping a third inch to kick the upper end of the MAX WOT spec.

Call your local hi-5 dealer; I hear they are pretty good about giving advice for converting to their prop.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 5 blade prop on a 3.0 Alpha One.

I'm thinking about a Mercury High 5 in a 19 Pitch. Will this give me a better hole shot and make it easier to keep the boat on plane (and at a lower speed)?

Ayuh,... A 4 blade aluminum prop will do that, for 1/2 the money....

or Less...