Need advice on what SS prop to buy

[jnoto1971]

Have a "new to me" used 2005 Tahoe Q4 with a 4.3ltr Mercury. Just have standard prop now, and considering going to stainless steel. I use the boat for everything from skiing, to cruising, to fishing (a little), tubing (a lot of turning). What would you recommend? Please tell me what diameter and pitch, and number of recommended blades. Brand and model, even part number would be AWESOME!!!!

 

[Walt T]

Re: Need advice on what SS prop to buy

Where is the boat used? Sea level or altitude? Gear ratio? What is current performance with the current prop? If performance currently allows you to achieve WOT rpm then you are propped correctly. Stainless might improve slightly or may knock off a couple of mph. I use aluminum props for pulling kids around all day, then go up a pitch and stainless props for long cruises on Lake Powell. Works for me, may not work for you. Most prop shops are happy to help you find the right prop and most will let you try them out before buying for a nominal fee, usually 25 bucks or so. If you plan on buying online well answer the questions I started with and I am sure you'll get lots of opinions.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Need advice on what SS prop to buy

forget it, I can almost gaurantee you will crack a tooth in the lower unit. Aluminum is a lot more forgiving,

 

[jnoto1971]

Re: Need advice on what SS prop to buy

forget it, I can almost gaurantee you will crack a tooth in the lower unit. Aluminum is a lot more forgiving,

OK, I've ordered an Aluminum Solas 4 blade 14.5 x 19p. The reviews seem to match what I'm using the boat for. Thanks for the help!

 

[jnoto1971]

Re: Need advice on what SS prop to buy

Where is the boat used? Sea level or altitude? Gear ratio? What is current performance with the current prop? If performance currently allows you to achieve WOT rpm then you are propped correctly. Stainless might improve slightly or may knock off a couple of mph. I use aluminum props for pulling kids around all day, then go up a pitch and stainless props for long cruises on Lake Powell. Works for me, may not work for you. Most prop shops are happy to help you find the right prop and most will let you try them out before buying for a nominal fee, usually 25 bucks or so. If you plan on buying online well answer the questions I started with and I am sure you'll get lots of opinions.

thanks for your reply. I use the boat in Missouri lakes so basically just above sea level. The outer drive is a one point 81 gear ratio.I spend most of the time pulling the kids around on the boards and cruising at medium to higher speeds. I like the idea that you have of having to props depending on what you're doing. As I reply below I just ordered a 4 blade Solis with a 19 pitch. I believe based on the reviews that this will help greatly with the knee boarding and then*I'll gauge how good it is for cruising fuel economy and at higher speeds. If need be I will pick up a different prop for doing those things.I would welcome any additional advice you have but will listen to what youve said and talk further with local shops.