Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

[playyas4u]

I have a 1993 Caravelle 1750 FS that I just purchased a week ago. I am looking to get a different prop for top end performance. I currently have a 15x17 prop that is turning 5400RPM which is too much. I think my WOT should be around 4600. If I run the 15x17 at 4600 I am able to push about 25MPH. I want the best prop for top end. I know stainless is the best route but I don't want stainless. Which pitch, diameter, and number of blades are going to give me the most top end. I normally only have 2 people in the boat and occasionally I'll have 4 but I can just use my 15x17 if I have 4 or more people in the boat. Also how fast can I expect to go in this boat. Thanks for any help in advance.

 

[rondi]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

Hustler makes some very good performance props in Aluminum.
I would go with at least a 19P and maybe a 21P.

 

[playyas4u]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

I ordered a Hustler 21 pitch prop. I'll update you all on it's performance.

 

[rondi]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

Good choice - looking forward to the update.

 

[playyas4u]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

I was able to put my hustler 21 pitch prop on over the weekend and try it out. I picked up 5mph over my 17 pitch prop but it takes forever to get on plane. I was able to top out at 35mph with two people in the boat at 4300 rpm. I am thinking about going down to a 19 pitch to gain a few more rpm and to get on plane faster. I think I may even gain a few mph. Will I loose top end if I go down to a 19 pitch and gain more rpm?

 

[Wotam]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

"...top out at 35mph with two people in the boat at 4300 rpm."

First question. Are you new to boats?
Have you experimented with adjusting your trim?
(Apologies for what seems like an insulting question if you've been running boats for awhile)

Second question: Do you have a GPS available you can check your speedometer against? You may be doing better than your speedo says.

Questions 3 and 4.
What altitude are you operating at?
Have you given the engine a tune-up yet?

IMHO stuff based on my own experience:
For general 'watersports' a 19" pitch works best on a 3.0 engine/typical bowrider. 21" for cruising and top speed.

There are lots of glowing reviews about 'smart tabs' posted around here. I haven't got a set myself but it seems like folks are pretty happy with them for improving performance in 3.0 powered boats.

 

[playyas4u]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

I am familiar with adjusting the trim and have checked the speedo againist my gps, it's very accurate. I will do some research on the smart tabs.

 

[Crownie2]

Re: Prop for OMC 3.0 Caravelle

IMO you wil like the 19" prop.

I'd forget the Smart Tabs unless you have real problems planing out.

Bob