Hi All!
I have come into a 1990 Party Barge that I have recently torn down to the frame rails and rebuilt from scratch. Now that I have it on the water I am presented with yet another issue to work out. I will list the problem and my thoughts on how to correct them below. Your suggestions and opinions are hereby enthusiastically solicited.
The facts:
2 Log, 24 foot Suntracker Party Barge 1990
Evinrude 60 HP with T/T 1990. Cav plate is just(< 1 inch) below the bottom of the transom tub.
WOT 4200-4300
GPS MPH at WOT 19-21 depending on up or down wind in 1 foot chop. 4 adults onboard but little else save required equipment. Bimini was not onboard. 10 Gallons of fuel.
Current Prop is a Solas fixed hub aluminum 3 blade 13.5D x 15P. Does not appear to be a "pontoon style prop" but I can't find a part number. Prop is in pristine condition.
Unsure of current weight but it should be lighter then stock. I used 3/4 in ply on the deck which is the same as the original but I used new plastic based seats instead of plywood so Im guessing 150-200 # weight savings over the original seats and helm.
The issue(s):
Low WOT RPM. I'm shooting for 5500-5600 and top speed is not a real issue one way or the other. Looking for efficient 1/2- 3/4 throttle cruise.
Random prop blowouts at speed. I'm not ruling out the chop/over pitched on this one.
My Thoughts for the solution:
I know I need to drop pitch. Should I also change to a "pontoon style" prop like a Hydrus from OMC or preferably a less costly brand?
Change pitch to a 13 or possibly a 12 while maintaining the diameter.
Your collective thoughts are most welcomed.
I have come into a 1990 Party Barge that I have recently torn down to the frame rails and rebuilt from scratch. Now that I have it on the water I am presented with yet another issue to work out. I will list the problem and my thoughts on how to correct them below. Your suggestions and opinions are hereby enthusiastically solicited.
The facts:
2 Log, 24 foot Suntracker Party Barge 1990
Evinrude 60 HP with T/T 1990. Cav plate is just(< 1 inch) below the bottom of the transom tub.
WOT 4200-4300
GPS MPH at WOT 19-21 depending on up or down wind in 1 foot chop. 4 adults onboard but little else save required equipment. Bimini was not onboard. 10 Gallons of fuel.
Current Prop is a Solas fixed hub aluminum 3 blade 13.5D x 15P. Does not appear to be a "pontoon style prop" but I can't find a part number. Prop is in pristine condition.
Unsure of current weight but it should be lighter then stock. I used 3/4 in ply on the deck which is the same as the original but I used new plastic based seats instead of plywood so Im guessing 150-200 # weight savings over the original seats and helm.
The issue(s):
Low WOT RPM. I'm shooting for 5500-5600 and top speed is not a real issue one way or the other. Looking for efficient 1/2- 3/4 throttle cruise.
Random prop blowouts at speed. I'm not ruling out the chop/over pitched on this one.
My Thoughts for the solution:
I know I need to drop pitch. Should I also change to a "pontoon style" prop like a Hydrus from OMC or preferably a less costly brand?
Change pitch to a 13 or possibly a 12 while maintaining the diameter.
Your collective thoughts are most welcomed.
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