Prop Test Results / Pontoon

[Dino2000]

In reference to this thread: http://forums.iboats.com/prop-questions-topics/correct-prop-frustrating-need-advice-616400.html

Here are the results.

Boat: Sweetwater 1880 Pontoon Boat (dual logs)
Engine: Suzuki DF60 (2002 4 stroke)
Passengers: 1 (myself)

Old Prop: 13.25 x 17 (3 blade)
- WOT RPM's = Appx 4000
- WOT Speed = 18 mph (GPS)
- Torque out of the hole = Poor
- Cavitation = Poor in turns

New Prop: Solas 13.25 x 13 (4 blade)
- WOT RPM's = Appx 5200
- WOT Speed = 23 mph (with trim)
- Torque our of the hole = Very Good
- Cavitation = Very Good All Around

Now.. time to possibly make more adjustments. I'm now wondering what an 11 pitch prop will do? Maybe increase RPM's by another 200 or so?? Also... Feel like I need to test with weight as I was the only occupant. I'm also considering changing the depth of the motor. Like many pontoons, my stern is very low in the water and at WOT my transom creates a ton of drag (just can't get the stern up high enough). Wondering what to do at this point.... I think my best bet is to wait and test with a load before I do anything.

So far... happy with my results but still looking to gain some efficiencies where I can.

Hope this info helps others... please feel free to post thoughts and/or ideas if you like. I'd appreciate all the info and experience I can get.

Thanks for reading!
- Steve

 

[Dino2000]

Re: Prop Test Results / Pontoon

Now... Shall I raise the engine? Take a look at the pic and let me know your thoughts please.

 

[Rancherlee]

Re: Prop Test Results / Pontoon

5200 is good for an old style 4 cylinder DF60, they were rated from 4300-5300rpm if I remember right (60hp @ 4800rpm) 23mph is also pretty good for 2 log toon with a 60hp, I only got that with my DF70 (Johnson version) on a light 20' 2 log

 

[Dino2000]

Re: Prop Test Results / Pontoon

Thanks for the info. I think I'm gonna raise my motor one hole and then test with weight. I doubt I'll do anything different other than experiment with engine placement. I'm pretty happy with the responsiveness I've gotten with the prop change (although I still haven't tested it with a load.... needs some passengers )

 

[Dino2000]

Re: Prop Test Results / Pontoon

Raised the motor and saw very little difference in performance but did see some cavitation.... Gonna have to lower it back to it's original location. Tests complete.... Gonna leave it as is. Hope this helps someone else.