prop selection for a newbe.

[country6220]

First of all hello everyone. This is probably a question asked over and over but I am pretty new at boating and I couldnt find the info in my searches. I have a 17ft bass tracker, its a 1988 with a 45hp mercury classic 50. It does not have a tach but the owners manual says 5000 - 5500 rpms. I have a ss #13 prop on it now. Iam looking for something to pick up my speed a little. Would you say the 13 is about right? or could I go to a 14 or 15? The last owner tells me top speed on this boat is about 30mph but without a guage I have no Idea. I have to put the throttle at about 80% to plane out so Iam thinking the 13 is about the highest I should go but not sure? Or would I be better forgetting about speed and try to plain out sooner and take it easier on the engine? Sorry for all the questions just want to get the best prop for my boat.

 

[steelespike]

Re: prop selection for a newbe.

Welcome,If you read the stickies at the top of the page and the helps on the prop store page it will help you better understand prop selection. But feel free to ask any further questions.
Unfortunately without actual numbers of your rpm and speed.with your present prop size we can't even tell if your present prop is right. A tinytach is reasonable easy to install and will work on any similar 2 stroke motor.Be sure to carefully read the info at their site and ask them any questions.
A gps is best for speed .It is critical for the
health of your motor to run within the upper end of the rpm range at wot(wide open throttle)Generally a 4 blade prop will improve your hole shot,stay on plane with less power,run smoother and the motor can be mounted higher also allowing better overall performance.