New Prop - OMC outdrive

[suds1421]

Everyone, I have a 1994 Four Winns Horizon 180 with the OMC/Ford 5.0 FL HO 302 carb motor. I have an OMC outdrive.

I currently have a 14 1/4 x 21 3 blade prop on it that needs to be replaced. Should I consider a 4 blade?

Primary usage is on a large lake (15 miles long), we spend our time touring, anchoring up and swimming or pulling (multi person tubes, knee board, wake board). At 3500 rpm I am running about 30mph. Seems to get up on plane easily/quickly.

What prop would you recommend? Any change to pitch or go to a 4 blade?

Thanks!

 

[Scott Danforth]

What is your WOT rpm?

 

[suds1421]

Almost 5000 at low 40's mph

 

[Scott Danforth]

Then your proped correctly

 

[suds1421]

Thank you for the response. I'm a newbie to working on my own boat. Have always helped others...

Specifically what prop should I look for? Theres so many in that size I don't know what to order.

 

[WakeWarrior]

I know this question is vague, but assume all things are the same between three different props. What does a change in pitch do for the engine/boat? Looking for a stronger launch from idle, if that's something that can be changed with a prop.

 

[suds1421]

I know this question is vague, but assume all things are the same between three different props. What does a change in pitch do for the engine/boat? Looking for a stronger launch from idle, if that's something that can be changed with a prop.

I found this when doing my research: https://www.boatingmag.com/how-to/understanding-propeller-pitch

 

[WakeWarrior]

Thanks for the link suds. That adds a little insight to my propeller selection.