propeller recomendation?

[rderenzy]

1997 Sylvan 19.6 open bow - 4.3L Merc alpha 1

Hello, I'd like to get a clean, smooth, new propeller for my boat - one I have has some chips out of it

Not really sure what I need or what to look for - my first boat
only numbers I can read are 14.25x21

I'd like to pull tubers and go fast - no fishing

 

[steelespike]

A prop shop should be cost effective to repair your prop.if you do a lightly loaded wide open throttle"wot"test run ,get us the wot rpm and gps speed.
Very likely the 14.25 X 21 is a good prop if the motor is healthy.If the prop is magnetic it is stainless otherwise its probably aluminum.
If it is aluminum the Solas amita or Solas rubex.They are the same prop but the Rubex has removable hub.

 

[rderenzy]

interesting....I never knew you could just repair them... but aren't they like 100 band new? I don't have a stainless

 

[steelespike]

New Solas amita is about 110 here and about 120 for the Rubex. Which includes install parts.
If the prop is just nicked here and there you may be able to clean it up with a file.
I'm guessing a repair is about $60.

 

[rderenzy]

I guess I'm confused on how I find out, or know exactly what I need? or should use. should I change anything from the 14.25 such as to 23 or down to 19? how do I be sure that the 21 is my best bet

 

[steelespike]

Do a lightly loaded wot(wide open throttle) test run.get us the gps speed and wot rpm.
Higher number pitch is harder for the motor to turn but if it can turn to max rpm it should make good speed.
How ever higher pitch makes for slower hole shot or struggle in water sports and heavy loads. Lower pitches improve hole shot and d heavy load etc.
One prop for all is a compromise.
Your 4.3 wot rpm range is 4400 to 4800 rpm.When at wot it needs to be able to be within the range.
Once you have established your best prop for the rpm you prefer. you can operate at what ever rpm you prefer.

 

[rderenzy]

this is very helpful, thank you.
i'll be sure to test as soon as I get on the water

 

[floater212]

also if you want to pull a skier or tube a 4 blade prop will give you more dig, quicker start, to get on plane. if a 21" pitch is to your liking then a 19" pitch in a 4 blade would do you better for pulling. then there is aluminum9 cheaper all around ok) or stainless steel ( more expensive) but there is no blade flex while under a big load. there are a few places that have a prop guide to help you out but you do need the wot and rpm range and what are you using it for, speed is one prop and watersports is another, you'll have to choose or have 2 props for whatever you do.

 

[rderenzy]

i see, I was curious on the 4 prop.
i'll get the RPM,GPS

I do want to pull a tube though, haven't tried that to see how well the boat handles

 

[rderenzy]

1997
19.6 sylvan open bow
Merc 4.3 lx gen+
Current prop is old and I think pretty dinged up
14.25 x21
Aluminum

WOT 47 mph but at 4900 rpm
Water a little choppy but not too bad
320lbs worth of gear and people

I like to cruz but I'd like to tow tubes too