Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

97 Volvo Penta 4.3GL 190HP 18' Reinell with SX-C1 Drive
WOT 4800 RPM.

Can I use a 14 1/2 X 19 SS Prop for more top end?
[h=3][/h]

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

Yes, but only if you replace the 4.3 with a 5 litre or a 5.7.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

What prop are you currently running to get the 4800? Like what material and what pitch?

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

Running a 14 1/2 X 19 Aluminum.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

jimmbo said:

Yes, but only if you replace the 4.3 with a 5 litre or a 5.7.

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Your joking right

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

Not joking... But, I guess that answers it. Thx.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

dtescher said:

Not joking... But, I guess that answers it. Thx.

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I was replying to the changing your motor comment.If you read the prop selection guide in the store it will help you out .

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

The answer to you question is; yes, you can expect better acceleration, better holding(less ventilation), and on average, an increase in top end speed of 2-3 mph by switching to a quality SS prop of the same size.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

jimmbo said:

Yes, but only if you replace the 4.3 with a 5 litre or a 5.7.

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Actually I'm not joking. the OP said he was getting 4800rpm with the current prop, which is the top of the operating range(4400-4800). Since he had not stated what the current prop was I do not know if it is an increase or decrease in pitch. If the 19 is smaller than his current prop then it will be over revving and outside the peak power range and the boat will slow down. If the 19 is larger than his current prop, by how much we don't know, it will kill his holeshot and if too big will prevent the engine from reaching peak power and that will result in a lower top speed.
Changing to a stainless prop isn't necessarily going to increase speed. It might permit changes to trim and engine height which in some cases which then require/utilize propellers that can work in that enviroment. It is not easy to adjust the height in a sterndrive. In practice I find changing the pitch within a given line of props results in the same top speed at different RPM and differences in the holeshot. Changing to a Stainless non hi performance prop usually results in the same top speed with better grip on the water in turns and when trimming out. Plus the higher risk of driveline damage when an object is struck.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

Changing to a stainless prop isn't necessarily going to increase speed..[/QUOTE]

It will if he uses a QUALITY SS prop, such as the one(14-3/4 X 19) by Volvo Penta. He must decide if the moderate increase in speed is worth the expense.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

The Volvo Penta SS props are hardly performance props, They are pretty much the same blade design, maybe a bit thinner, as the VP aluminium props

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

If you get us the info needed in the stickys at the top of the forum we could
probably be more constructive with our comments.
Seems someone would have suggested earlier.

Re: Prop ? Trying to get more top end speed.

Ok, Here's the info that might help.

1) Want more top end speed
2) Current prop manufacturer, QL Marine E series, Mod#41102328
3) Current prop diameter and pitch, 14 1/2 X 19 Aluminum, 3 Blade
4) Wide open throttle RPM and speed with an average load, WOT 4800RPM at 45MPH
5) Engine/drive make, model, year, and HP, 4.3GL with SX-C1 Drive, 1997, 190HP
6) Boat make model, year, length and weight, Reinell 180, 1997, 18', 1960LBS Dry Weight

Hope this helps. Also, I found a local SS Prop(like new) 14 1/2 X 22 for $100

That's why I posted in the first place.