moving down in pitch???

[jhafner]

Hello,

My current setup is a Johnson 115hp with a factory OMC aluminum 14 X 19 prop. This is a very good balance with good performance. However, I notice the motor works very hard around 3000 rpm trying to keep the boat on plane. Would a 17 pitch prop help keep the boat on plane at lower speeds? I know I will loose some top end, but that's no big deal. WOT is around 5200 rpm and hits 47-48 mph.

Thanks in advance,

JH

 

[MikDee]

Re: moving down in pitch???

Definitely! It should put you right at the sweet spot thruout the rpm range, and if you get the right prop, a "Hustler" I think, you may even pickup some speed, because it unloads your engine to spin more free.

Wait, I retract part of that, it won't lower your rpm at plane but will ease the load on your engine, trim tabs, or a hydrofoil would help also.

 

[Fireman431]

Re: moving down in pitch???

Just a quick thought...what's the reason to stick at 3000 rpm? If it's having a difficult time at that speed, why not run it at 3200? Just wondering....

 

[steelespike]

Re: moving down in pitch???

The true sweet spot cruising speed(best mileage)can be as much as 2,000 rpm above planing speed depending upon the boat,motor and setup.