WOT

[fxdl]

I'm new at boating and just bought a 1999 Lund with a 4.3L EFI Mercruiser, Alpha 1. The prop is 14.5" x 19" Black Max aluminum and two of the prop blades are slightly bent, so I was considering buying a new prop anyway. My engine manual says my WOT should be 4400 to 4800. I checked it and it's running about 4950. Since I'm in the market for a new prop anyway, should I change to a different size or pitch. If I decide to go to stainless, what size and pitch should that be?<br /><br />I've read a lot about props on this site, but would like a response based on my specific condition.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[cobra 3.0]

Re: WOT

A 21" pitch should bring you into the range you need.<br /><br />You could have your old prop repitched at a prop shop to 21".

 

[fxdl]

Re: WOT

Thanks Cobra - Do I need to stay with a 14.5" diameter? Seems like there's a bunch of 14" and 141/4" x 21", but the 14.5" is harder to find.

 

[Darian F.]

Re: WOT

you also have the option of a four blade prop; which will help you plane faster and cruise at lower throttle speed<br />Do you run with a full fuel load and gear?<br />Or lightly loaded?<br />Any waterskiing?

 

[bluewater19]

Re: WOT

Laser II 21 pitch.<br />The diameter is set by the prop manufacturer. You need to only worry about the pitch. The diameter is set based on what the function of the prop is.<br /> The laser 21 pitch is over 14" where as the 23 pitch is a little under 14"<br />If you want an aluminum prop a black max is a good all around prop for that type of boat.<br />Check out the 14.25/ 21 pitch. The laser II will give a good holeshot with a little better top end.<br />On a light lund with the HP you are turning a offshore 21 ptich would be a good 4 blade. It has A good holeshot,your topend will suffer though. I would also look at a mirage plus 21 pitch if you like to cruise at around 3000 rpm for good mileage. check out Ebay for some killer deals on used props. They have lotsof 21 pitch props for your boat, it is a popular pitch.

 

[fxdl]

Re: WOT

Darian F. - I'm planning on using my boat for mostly fishing, however we'll probably do some waterskiing and just cruising with friends. Seems there's always too much gear in the boat when we're fishing, so I would say it'll probably be loaded most of the time.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: WOT

If staying with a three blade and if you go stainless, you should get the same pitch prop that you have. Stainless wont flex as your old aluminum did and will be cupped more, you will be at about the right RPM with the stainless.

 

[Rickles]

Re: WOT

Was that your boat tach?We see many tach's that aren't accurate.Double check with a known good shop meter.Just my 2 cents.