Trim Tabs/ Prop

[hillerk]

I have a rinker 226 with 5.0L MPI. It came with a 21 pitch prop which did not provide enough hole shot. After going to the dealer, he recommended trying a 19 pitch prop and traded me out. This provided much better hole shot a actually did not reduce top end speed much. However, when I pull a skier, it still seems to be a bit slugish. Bow does not rise much but it just seems to be low on the torque. I want to mention that both props have been the mercury alluminum.

So questions

1. I have seen the Smart Tabs advertised. Will this help me at all
2. Will a stainless prop help. I have read posts that say you receive little performance enhancement from SS.
3. What about 4 blade
5. What should I do first?

Thanks

 

[QC]

Re: Trim Tabs/ Prop

Deep water slalom starts are always a tough job. If you are not experiencing much bowrise I am not sure that tabs will make a huge difference although they will help. Stainless will usually hurt hole shot although the Merc High Five is considered a very good skiers prop and may be just the ticket. Yes four blade can have a little better hole shot than a three blade as well.

You need a spare prop anyway, so I think I would try a High Five 19 first, especially if you have a dealer that will work with you. With that said, and I love the 5.0 MPI, that combo will never be a great towboat . . . I always recommend trim tabs . . .