merc brass prop

[skeg]

I have a 69 larson shark with a 69 merc 1000c outboard and it came with 3 props one is a aluminum 2 blade with the markings -19 the one on the motor is a aluminum 3 blade with no markings that I can see and the third is a brass 2 blade that reads quick silver 48-31448-a3-25 my question is what is the numbers mean on the brass prop and should I use it this thing is heavy my local shop says it will wear out my lower unit because of the weight. what is the reason for a brass prop?

 

[steelespike]

Re: merc brass prop

Welcome,
Brass was used before stainless and usually was a more sofisticated
as stainless is now.The 19 is likely a 19" pitch prop,the 25 indicates a 25" pitch. The other prop probably has numbers under the prop nut.
If you read the helps at the iboats prop store page it will help you understand prop selection.If the motor has the power to turn the 25 it should
be faster than the 19 but hole shot will be poorer.
Brass and stainless are about the same weight It will have no affect on your gearcase.Once the prop is in motion the weight has no affect.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: merc brass prop

I recommend you look for another local shop that knows what they are talking about and less prone to B.S. The "brass" prop will in no way harm your lower unit.

And just for the record, the prop is BRONZE! That's a common mistake people make. The zinc in brass tends to dissociate and the prop will corrode fast. The tin in bronze slows down any corrosive effects.

When polished, brass is quite yellow in color while bronze is more of a coppery-golden color.

 

[skeg]

Re: merc brass prop

will i just have to watch my idle speed setting to keep the gears from slamming or is there just some technique needed to slip it into gear with out the slam that sound makes me nervous thanks for all the help on explaining this to a newbie

 

[steelespike]

Re: merc brass prop

Yes, get the idle low about 700 shift into gear crisply neither jamming it
in nor dragging it.Its normal for a little noise and a clunk.