stainless vs. aluminum props

6

60wt

Recruit
Joined
May 9, 2010
Messages
1
recently purchased a boat with a volvo penta I/O 3.0L 16 foot Glastron which came with a nicked and slightly bent prop aluminum prop...WOT RPM is good and all that.... I want to replace the prop with stock size (14 1/2-19) with a NEW one and are trying to decide between the two..alum or stainless...other than price can anyone fill me in on pros and cons of either and/or your recomendation......Thanks
 
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Steev-oh

Cadet
Joined
Jun 9, 2009
Messages
28
Re: stainless vs. aluminum props

Aluminum is alot cheaper to fix/replace if you bump a rock, shole or log.
I speak from experience, if you don't mind a few MPH reduction and some extra $$ in your pocket then stick with Aluminum
 
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steelespike

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 26, 2002
Messages
19,069
Re: stainless vs. aluminum props

14 1/2 ft I/O thats mighty small.In my opinion a ss isn't worth the money
granted you you could probably squeeze that last 1/2 mph out of a ss.
ss are expensive; their weight is said to produce slighly more wear in shifting stress.
They hold up better against impacts though are more expensive to repair.They are sometimes suggested where soft contacts are likely shallow soft bottom.
There really isn't a truly "stock" size prop only a prop that has been selected to produce the most speed. They seldom produce the best all around performance.
If you give us your present prop size and max rpm and speed and your typical load and activities there are some experts here that can help you select a prop.There are plenty of al props that can produce good performance.The Turning Point Hustler is very good though can be difficult to get just the right one.Solas Amita do well at reasonable prices and probably others.
 
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