Alloy vs Stainless Prop

[BiteTime]

I have recently bought a 17' runabout with a 1986 Suzuki DT140. This is my first outboard powered boat. It has a Suzuki 13x19 3 blade aluminium (V1900 I think) prop which gives around 50mph flat out with just me in the boat.<br /><br />I have a stainless prop, Suzuki VS1900 13x19x3 (i.e. same as the alloy one). I have read that stainless is better than alloy, but what should I expect if this is installed? Does everything get better, e.g. speed, economy, smoothness, etc - and by how much? Is there any reason not to use it?<br /><br />Thanks for the advice.

 

[suzuki115]

Re: Alloy vs Stainless Prop

My OB came with a SS prop, I replaced it with an Aluminum and keep the SS for backup. Where I run there is a lot of shallow waters. I run the aluminum in case I hit bottom, it may do a little less damage to the LU compared to the SS. Performance speaking there are slight advantages in increases performance with SS but you can't notice much of a difference unless your running a racing engine. If you run in saltwater they will hold up better but still need to be well maintained.

 

[steve forsythe]

Re: Alloy vs Stainless Prop

Where i run (offshore) i prefer ss. If i hit junk like weed beds, sticks, or even small logs, i cut right through them. If you run shallow....go with aluminum. You will bend a few if you hit bottom...but less damage to lower unit like suzuki said.

 

[kevlar3000]

Re: Alloy vs Stainless Prop

I have run both. Aluminum is great for the shallows, and general running around. If performance is your goal then SS is the way to go. With my hull I have better handleling with the SS Chopper. The hole shot, accel, top speed are all better. I have heard of increases of 5 mph with a SS prop blueprinted to your existing hull. Usually you can expect 1-2 mph more, as compared to a similiar aluminum. The most important thing with any prop is to make sure you are in the proper rpm range. Over and under revving is likely death for any outboard. If you can, try some different props and you will be amazed at some of the differences...

 

[steve forsythe]

Re: Alloy vs Stainless Prop

Is there a site that matches up motors with correct size props? I have been told that my prop is the wrong size. How would i know?? 200 merc carbed 2000 model. Any ideas?

 

[Backlash]

Re: Alloy vs Stainless Prop

Hey Purse,<br />What RPMs are you running at WOT. If lower than what Merc recommends for your engine, you need to decrease the pitch on your prop. If higher.......increase the pitch. <br />Backlash