New Boater Prop Question

[kehatch]

I just bought my first real boat. A new Chaparral 180 SSI with a 4.3 Volvo - 190 HP. I am getting conflicting advice on whether I should stick with the factory aluminum prop, or go with a new 5-Star stainless steel prop.

Any suggestions? Do you need an extra prop? Is the stainless steel worth the 1000 bucks or so? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[RubberFrog]

Re: New Boater Prop Question

Stick with the factory prop for this year. Get to know the boat and find the sweet spot for trimming your motor. Once you've got lots of experience with how this particular boat and prop handle, than you are ready to experiment with different props.

A 5 blade prop will give you better holeshot and low end handling at the expense of top end.

You may be totally satisfied with how your boat handles with the stock prop. There is no one perfect prop. It's all a matter of personal preference. And it's going to take experience with your boat and prop to know what prop is right for your boat and needs.

Whoever tried to sell you a prop for $1000... shoot him.

 

[kehatch]

Re: New Boater Prop Question

Thanks for the great advice.

 

[javelinx1]

Re: New Boater Prop Question

I have a 2007 Tahoe Q6 21 ft with the 5.0L Alpha drive. The 3-blade aluminum prop from the factory would flex. This flex causes vibrations and
a somewhat uncomfortable ride. I switched to a Mercury High Five from propellersonline.com (only $485). The high five prop gave me an awesome hole shot (no flex), much less vibration and a smoother ride. I would highly recommed the High Five for your boat. Get rid of that factory three blade and learn how the drive your boat on a real prop. Think about it!!! That time on the water is precious. Do it right.