Brand new to me 2006 sea ray 180 owner with prop questions, I have the 180vsport with mercruiser 3.0 alpha one with a 14.25x21pitch black diamond (mercury/) propeller. Ive had luck seeking collective wisdom of enthusiast before, those who might know this boat or the 3.0 engine, and interested in sharing their experience.
question one, when does one need to replace a propeller- again first boat/newb question for sure, I ran into a shoal on the third trip out, there is a chunk out of the aluminum 3 blade prop about half the size of a dime- how much does this affect efficiency in this engine and relatively lightweight boat? There does not seem to be any other damage to the lower unit I am aware of.
2-any propeller suggestions- interested in mid performance, some knee board or tubing with kids, but mostly just enjoying the boat and efficiency again, It seemed to top out at around 35mph per the gauge- thought this should be faster, sorry don't have a record of the rpms at wot, again first couple times on a boat/new boat. Considering turning point hustler14x21, vs solas amita, vs another black diamond mercury propeller. Not interested in stainless as I expect to run into something else on the lakes.
question one, when does one need to replace a propeller- again first boat/newb question for sure, I ran into a shoal on the third trip out, there is a chunk out of the aluminum 3 blade prop about half the size of a dime- how much does this affect efficiency in this engine and relatively lightweight boat? There does not seem to be any other damage to the lower unit I am aware of.
2-any propeller suggestions- interested in mid performance, some knee board or tubing with kids, but mostly just enjoying the boat and efficiency again, It seemed to top out at around 35mph per the gauge- thought this should be faster, sorry don't have a record of the rpms at wot, again first couple times on a boat/new boat. Considering turning point hustler14x21, vs solas amita, vs another black diamond mercury propeller. Not interested in stainless as I expect to run into something else on the lakes.