Props designed for 4-stroke engines only?

[Cadde]

Hi, I have found two, 4-blade props that will fit my outboard. The two models pop up on various sites' "prop finders" as being compatible. However, when I cross checked those props on the manufacturer's site, the description of one states "Wide blade design specifically for 4-stroke engines". Can I use this on my 2-stroke? (my local dealer only carries the 4-stroke prop). Thanks.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Props designed for 4-stroke engines only?

Not knowing which prop manufacturer, prop series and what 4-stroke and two-stroke motors we are talking about we can't begin to help. That said, one must be careful what you interpret from the statement for 4-stroke engines only. Keep in mind that a 4-stroke engine from (Merc for example) may not have the exact same lower unit as a two-stroke motor (Merc for example) so in that context, the prop does not interchange. The do not interchange because fit - not because of a performance characteristic differences between a 2- and 4-stroke engine. Every manufacturer has a number of gear case sizes and props are designed specifically for those gear cases. Although the prop may fit on a shaft, the hub-to-gearcase interface may not be compatible and therefore does not interchange either.

 

[jestor68]

Re: Props designed for 4-stroke engines only?

There is no such thing as a 4 stroke vs 2 stroke prop.

Manufacturers making statements to the effect that their props are tailored to the performance characteristics of 4 stroke motors is more of a marketing strategy than anything else.

Since 2 stroke motors are rapidly becoming a thing of the past, it makes sense to market you props "specially designed for the performance characteristics of 4 stroke motors". They're the same props they made last year.