Solve prop problem with reeds?

[jddenham]

In this forum I have learned that a mediocre or poor performing setup can be improved by adjusting engine height and trim.

After those adjustments are exhausted, the prop can be changed for better performance/RPM.

Well according to this page:

http://www.bobsmachine.com/Products/boysen_main.cfm

Boysen Reeds can increase RPM by 100 - 300.

Let's say that we have adjusted engin height and angle, but need 100 - 300 more RPM's and we're considering one size smaller pitch on the prop.

Could we consider the addition of these aftermarket reeds, which MIGHT get us in the desireable RPM range, and would increase the efficiency of our engine, without spending the money on the different pitch prop?

Just a thought - any input would be welcomed.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Solve prop problem with reeds?

At approx $30-40 a piece, I guess it would depend on which motor you have and if you are installing them yourself or paying someone to do it.

On a big motor, it could cost you $500, a new prop would be cheaper.

The efficiency issue is a whole different subject, and subject to scrutiny and of course, the number of hours you put on the motor.

 

[JUSTINTIME]

Re: Solve prop problem with reeds?

great on race boats, but on a weekend warrior, really not worth it

some guys with jet skis swear by them, others says they often crack and get sucked into the engine causing damage

i think i will stick with stock

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Solve prop problem with reeds?

Fiber reeds are a great investment for 2 reasons...#1 "IF" they crack(usually from too lean of mixture burning them during a back-fire), they won't damage the internal components of the engine.
#2. Most Fiber reeds "allow" not "make" an engine achieve RPM not possible with stock reeds due to flutter.
I have installed fiber reeds in all of my outboards I've rebuilt-customers and my own....in my experience, a 100RPM gain would be considerable-I've never seen more than that just by installing reeds. They "DO", however, increase hole-shot performance and increased throttle response in the mid-range, and allow an Idle so low it's incredible.
The reeds are simply a product that will allow higher RPM if the rig is being set-up specifically to turn over the mid to upper 6000RPM range, on the top side...Low and mid-range is where they really shine.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Solve prop problem with reeds?

I too have seen better acceleration with just about every set I've installed or sold. There is generally some improvement on the top end but rarely 300 rpm.

The only time you'll see anywhere near that is if the stock reeds are at the point they flutter and that's when they stop flowing effectively. IE - if your motor turns 5600 now, I wouldn't think that you'd magically get 5900. Maybe you'd get close to 5700 or maybe you'd still be at 5600 but with better (smoother) acceleration.

But, let's say you have a stock V6 crossflow. Those reeds tend to "give up" somewhere around 6300. In this case the reeds are what's holding the motor back. The Boyesens will allow that same motor to go right to 6500, maybe a little more. There's the basis for their claim.