Do you think this is a suitable prop for a Mercury 90?

[racingintherain]

Newbie that could use some sage advice.
Need new prop for a 1996 Mecury 90 2 cycle outboard on a 20' Hurricane deck boat used exclusively for easy cruising in a small bay.

The only identifying numbers I can make out on the prop that is on the motor currently are 48 77342 and it is a 3 blade prop. There was a small crack in one of the blades and last time out, that piece of the blade broke off. As far as i can tell, it produced adequate performance (correct RPM at WOT) when it was whole, but when trying to navigate in and out of my narrow canal, never seemed to offer much control.

It has been suggested that I replace with a Solas Amita #1413-130-15 Aluminum Boat Propeller, which is 4 blade prop with 15 pitch.

Can anyone hazard a best guess as to whether this would be a good replacement choice. Can anyone tell from the numbers on the existing prop what an exact replacement for it would be? (seems like there are a few trailing numbers missing when I search).

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Racingintherain

 

[usskydvr]

Re: Do you think this is a suitable prop for a Mercury 90?

Your prop appears to be a 13 3/4 x 15 Mercury prop.
(48-77342A40, 48-77342A45)
Since your WOT/RPM is correct you have the right prop. The SOLAS unit is a 13 x 15 which may give you a 'bit' more handling, but a 90 hp on a 20' deckboat will get controlled mostly by the wind and current regardless of your prop. Good Luck!

 

[racingintherain]

Re: Do you think this is a suitable prop for a Mercury 90?

Thanks for responding usskydvr.

I greatly appreciate you comments.

Racingintherain

 

[steelespike]

Re: Do you think this is a suitable prop for a Mercury 90?

The Solas Amita has an excellent reputation.It will get the boat on plane easier stay on plane with less power,run smoother,trim higher and will allow a higher motor installation height.( less drag)