Which propeller brand?

[JConley]

I have a 2004 Glastron SX 175 with a 3.0L Volvo Penta SX sterndrive. The current prop is a 14.5 x 19 (4600rpm = 38mph). I want to change my prop to a 14.25 x 21 to gain more top end speed. With so many brands to choose from, which should I go with? I want to keep it aluminum and less than $150. Why does a Hustler or Quicksilver cost more than a Solas? I can get a brand new Volvo Penta prop from "that auction site" for $150. Is OEM better?

 

[90stingray]

Re: Which propeller brand?

I think some props use the hub kits to help keep costs down... that way they can make one prop fit many gearcases. And some may have a press in hub. Maybe paying for a name? Paying for all the engineering that has gone into r&d?... who knows...

I think there was an article with a stingray boat where they tested something like 20 props and the final word was volvo's oem ws the best all around prop... whatever that is worth to ya. I will try to find the link. Hope this helps...

 

[jestor68]

Re: Which propeller brand?

First off, if you are only turning 4600 rpm with a 19 pitch, you will making a mistake by trying to go to a 21.

 

[jimmbo]

Re: Which propeller brand?

I would try a 20in Mercury Enertia. My glastron 195 sx with VP I/O came with a 21 inch. The Enertia has better hotshot and top speed than the stock prop. Also the boat rides higher in the water and the prop rares lets go of the water unless trimmed way too far out.

 

[JConley]

Re: Which propeller brand?

@Jester68 - The manufacturer's recommended rpm for WOT is 4200-4600 rpms. So my rpms aren't low with the 19 pitch. Depending on how I trim the boat at WOT I can be anywhere from 4400-4700 rpms and maintain ~38 mph on the gps. Trimmed for 4700 rpms there is a bit of a rooster tail. Trimmed for 4400 rpms there is no rooster tail and bow seems slightly low.

@Jimmbo - Do you have an extension on your cavitation plate? What is it?

 

[jimmbo]

Re: Which propeller brand?

My lower unit is stock. I did make one error I mixed up what prop you are currently using. Somehow I thought it was a 21. Since you are using a 19, I would reccommend an 18 Enertia, maybe a 19. It is a very good prop