General info regarding props

[ConroeBoater]

While the rig I have runs well, Im looking for more top end, lower cruising rpm's, and still maintain my WOT range...is this even practical?? Here's what I have:

'95 Galaxie 19'6 Bowrider (weight 2650) w/ 5.7L Inboard - WOT range 4400 - 4800 rpm
14 1/2 x 19P Ballistic SS 3 blade runs 54 (gps) at 4400 rpm (WOT)
Outstanding hole shot

While doing faster than 55 mph is not something I wish to do all the time, I have a hard believing that's all I can get out this 350 motor. I know that I will lose a litle hole shot by going up in pitch, but it's so impressive now that if i lose a LITTLE BIT, Im okay with that.

I purchased a 14.2 x 23 Solas alum. as a back-up and tried it out. NOT IMPRESSED. It brought my WOT out of recommended range (4100 rpm) and it only gave me 2 extra mph. Im figuring at WOT, this alum. prop is flexing too much to give me the performance I was looking for.

Question is: Do I need to go down more in diameter if i want to run a higher pitch prop? And do I need to stick with Ballistic stainless?? Any input will be very helpfull.

Andy, TX

 

[Bondo]

Re: General info regarding props

Ayuh,... Regardless of the diameter, proping Up, lowers the rpms at wot...

At 4400rpms now, you don't have the Horsepower for a taller prop...

 

[steelespike]

Re: General info regarding props

While the 23" Solas isn't practical I'm fairly impressed with a prop that adds 2 mph to a boat allready over 50 mph.Be sure your motor is in excellent tune,good compression and the throttle opens all the eway.Bottom clean and smooth.
I'm not an expert on the technical side of these things but a good prop shop may be able to modify your Ballistic.Perhaps remove or modify some of the cup.Or remove a little pitch.
And cost less than a new prop. You could use about 400 rpm more.