Mercury propeller question...

[frozenokie]

I have a Mercury prop for my 115HP inline 6 (some of you already know - 86 power head in a 76 skin) and the 19 pitch SS prop (brushed finish round ear, cupped) has a 1/4" hole behind each ear at the leading edge. My guess is to add a little "push" but I can't say I've seen them before.

What are they for? Is it better to have them or have a similar prop that doesn't?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Mercury propeller question...

The holes are "vents" which allows a little bit of exhaust gas to exit those holes shich allows the prop to slip a little at low rpm. The slippage allows the engine to get into its power band a little quicker enhancing hole shot. The vents have no effect at higher speeds.

 

[frozenokie]

Re: Mercury propeller question...

Hey SilverTip - thanks for that info! Makes sense...