This is for information only in case someone is interested
I changed out a Michigan Wheel 48 66450A4 17P wheel for a Solas Amita 4 1513-148-15 14.75" x 15P on a 1975 Apollo 19-foot Ford 302 / 888 package.
I installed old style trim / plane tabs to help out the time to initial plane and to keep the bow down. I tried many times to trim the boat while underway and on plane at different speeds with the Michigan Wheel --- results were very little difference if any until finally losing speed and steering control.
After installing the Solas Amita 4 ---> planes much quicker, raises stern / pushes bow down, I can trim 300 to 400 rpm increase and speed increases.
I was never quite sure about the old prop ---- WOT rpm 3600 with Michigan Wheel.
Solas Amita 4 --- WOT rpm about 3900 ---- need to work on power trim skills now that it will trim.
I am also considering removing the trim / plane tabs. I will at least try it with them removed for reduced drag..
I am very happy with the change ---- thank you all for the great information in these posts to help me with my decision to change props and what to look for.
Best Regards
OFM
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"If the boat is not sinking or on fire ---- Relax."
Apollo, that is actually a Mercury prop with those numbers, but I do agree with you that the Solas Amita 4 blade props work really well on most boats that need low end pulling power and stern lift. But what I know about props I know you know about motors, just different genres.
Wow, I thought I changed that prop at least once If I hadn't hit those rocks I would probably still be running it ---- is is really gone on the inside hub where the exhaust exits.
The experience, knowledge, effort and time you freely give is most appreciated
Kind Regards
OFM
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"If the boat is not sinking or on fire ---- Relax."
If the blades aren't messed up and you just spun the hub, they can usually replace the hub for about $ 35, depending on where you live and you might use it as a spare. But if the blades are messed up as well it usually is not feasible to have it fixed.
I thank you very much for the kind words Apollo, and I know you do the same thing to help people as well with motors.