another prop question

[sly99]

Hi, i'm a newbie to boat and i just got this boat last week.

i have a 1997 chaparral 180le. 18 feet with a mecruiser 3.0 lx. right now i have a 3 blade 17 prop and my max rpm its too high 5050 rpm. at 4800 i do around 36-37 mph i want to change the prop but not sure if i should go 4 blade and what degree. any one can help me chose the right one?

 

[steelespike]

Re: another prop question

If you read the stickys at the top of the prop forum it will help you understand prop selection better.
perhaps get us more of the details of your boat and activities.What is your load at 5050rpm?
The 17" prop is typically suggested for water sports with a load and expected to need to be watched for rpm. A 19" could get you about 4700 and and a wot (wide open throttle)speed of about 40.
It will slow your hole shot.

 

[sly99]

Re: another prop question

thanks for the reply, the weight was between 300 and 350lbs and we are using the boat for cruising. i went in town today and got a bs pro black m 14.5 x19.

 

[steelespike]

Re: another prop question

Let us know how you make out.

 

[sly99]

Re: another prop question

i had the chance to try the new prop. with the same load i was able to get 43mph and the max rpm was 4800 exactly where i wanted. i'm happy with the 19.

 

[steelespike]

Re: another prop question

Looks like your all set, isn't it nice when a plan works out.