Prop size question

[maddog2112]

I`m thinking about buying a new prop for my Tahoe Q6 for next season. I`ve decided on a 19 pitch but noticed the solas amitas has a 14.5 inch and a 15 and 3/10`s" size. What would the difference in prop size mean? It`ll be driving a 5.0 .

 

[david_r]

Re: Prop size question

this is opening a can of worms.

you have a lot to deal with: diameter, pitch, and rake........ just for basics

what are you looking for stern lift or bow lift?

more take off or more top end?

when i had my hub repaired i was talking with the guy at the prop shop (owner and boss) and i thought i half way had it figured out.......... then you talk to an expert.

i dont have any real answers for you as i am no expert, but you need to give more info so the gurus can give you some advice.

something like: current rpms, total boat weight, current speed, current prop brand and size, and what performance you wuld like to enhance.

there are some props that are good for almost everything, but the more versitile the more expensive....... high performance always comes at a higher cost.

i hope you find what you are looking for........ and by the way some prop shops will let you do some trial and error if you do not damage the prop.. or have to special order it.... that goes a long way into finding the correct prop for your boating style.

 

[Capt'n Chris]

Re: Prop size question

Call Power Tech. For years they have steered me right...either that, or built props to suit. I raced long ago and had has many as 10 custom props for one race boat at a time. There is no firm prop answer for any boater as there are far too many variables. You can think of a prop as a single speed transmission. Sure, you can run an average prop which most folks do, but we don't know the attitude of your boat and how you load it. Your goal is to determine your load and prop it for that load to reach the max rpms as recommended by the mfr of your motor.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Prop size question

You want a new prop but you apparently have not determined if you actually NEED one. You have posted no wide open throttle rpm with an average load which is critical in determining whether you actually need a different prop. Your question should be posted in the Propeller Forum but before you do that, read the "Read This First" sticky at the very top of that forum.

 

[maddog2112]

Re: Prop size question

Wow, I guess I did open a can of worms. I`ve got a 21ft tahoe Q6 with a cheap 21 pitch prop which works fine overall. I run about 4600 rpm full out with about 53mph on the speedo. My brother inlaw was with us the last time we were out skiing, and he suggested a 19 pich prop would give a quicker holeshot. I know I would probably give a little on top end which is fine. stern and bow lift aren`t really an issue since i installed my smarttabs. I was just curious why the Solas brand had both a 14.5" and 15" prop with 19 pitch, and what the difference in size would mean. thanks for the help!!