Which prop would you pick?

[tntitans21399]

I bought a newer boat last year, 14.5ft 1985 model with a 85hp engine. Then my friend needed some money now for his new Saltwater boat so he gave me a really good deal on his old 16ft bass boat with a 115hp motor. I am going to sell the 85hp boat but i had a question about the props. the 85hp motor has a stainless steel 3 blade prop with no dings and just about brand new looking. The newer boat with the 115hp prop has a 4 blade aluminum prop that has been dinged up. My friend said when their is two people in the boat it takes a little bit to plane out because so much weivht is in the back (fuel tank, batteries, etc...). he has the fins you can attach to the lower unit but never got around to put them on. Doesnt that help plane out quicker?

but to my prop question. I have read that 4 blades are better at lower speeds (taking off, crusing, turning) & 3 blades give you higher top end speeds. I have also read that Stainless Steel props are the best vs aluminum. So my question is which would you rather have on your boat a 4 blade aluminum (I would look to replace the dented with same) or a 3 blade stainless steel prop?

 

[steelespike]

Re: Which prop would you pick?

As far as the slow plane out the better solution if possible is to balance the boat.Some how move the gas and/or batteries forward even if only to midway.
We can't really evaluate the props without knowing the size(usually under the prop nut.
Are the motors the same brand,what brand?What year?It isn't likely that the props would perform correctly on the other motor.

 

[cyclops2]

Re: Which prop would you pick?

To me the biggest concern is using a accurate tachometer on each boat before switches begin.
Both boats have same sized spline ?
Same rpm range ? what are they ?
Older boats DO pick up weight. So testing is needed. Borrow props for them. Our local guy does loaners on anything. Some websites DO have a 30 day trial period. Saw that last week. Use ther props ??