I have a 2000 Model Glastron SX175 with Volvo 3.0L/SX Drive which I believe is 1:1.97 ratio. Currently have a decent shape aluminum 3-blade 14.5x19p volvo penta prop that has open vent holes in it (one for each blade). The best numbers I've ever seen at a light load were 38mph (GPS) @ 4600 RPM. This was perfect conditions and me playing with trim until it was back and forth between 37 and 38mph.
The load I am trying to optimize for is 3 adults on board and one adult slalom skiing. With my current prop I get 4400-4500RPM @ 35 mph with that load. I think these numbers are pretty good considering the boat, engine, and age so I'm inclined to believe it's running pretty well. Seems like it is.
The holeshot and top speed are both acceptable, however, I would love to be able to get 1 or 2 more mph without sacrificing hole shot (if it's even possible, that's why I'm here asking for advise)
My research has lead me to believe that since my holeshot is acceptable to us and I want a top speed increase, I should stick with a 3-blade prop. It also seems that my best chance of accomplishing this is switching to a stainless prop.
Since I am 100-200 RPM shy of the 4600 redline with my typical load I believe, through online research, that an 18p stainless 3-blade prop might be my best shot. Does that seem correct?
What do you think my best course of action is? I'm willing to spend $300-400 if this can be accomplished and results in having a good quality stainless prop that will last for years. I'm certainly not set on stainless, that just seems the best bet for my goal.
There doesn't seem to be a huge selection of stainless props in 18p.
Do you guys think I should shop for a 17p, 18p, or 19p?
Do you think it is even possible to get 37mph @ 4600PRM with 3 adults and one skier?
Buying a $300 stainless prop and then having a shop rework it for $200 isn't ideal BUT if the prop I choose isn't quite there, could a good shop tweak it a little if I provide them good data? I have two prop shops that are both 2 hours away in opposite directions. I'd love to try props out but don't want to be making the 4 hour round trip more than once. Is there a good online shop that will ship props to try?
Thanks!
The load I am trying to optimize for is 3 adults on board and one adult slalom skiing. With my current prop I get 4400-4500RPM @ 35 mph with that load. I think these numbers are pretty good considering the boat, engine, and age so I'm inclined to believe it's running pretty well. Seems like it is.
The holeshot and top speed are both acceptable, however, I would love to be able to get 1 or 2 more mph without sacrificing hole shot (if it's even possible, that's why I'm here asking for advise)
My research has lead me to believe that since my holeshot is acceptable to us and I want a top speed increase, I should stick with a 3-blade prop. It also seems that my best chance of accomplishing this is switching to a stainless prop.
Since I am 100-200 RPM shy of the 4600 redline with my typical load I believe, through online research, that an 18p stainless 3-blade prop might be my best shot. Does that seem correct?
What do you think my best course of action is? I'm willing to spend $300-400 if this can be accomplished and results in having a good quality stainless prop that will last for years. I'm certainly not set on stainless, that just seems the best bet for my goal.
There doesn't seem to be a huge selection of stainless props in 18p.
Do you guys think I should shop for a 17p, 18p, or 19p?
Do you think it is even possible to get 37mph @ 4600PRM with 3 adults and one skier?
Buying a $300 stainless prop and then having a shop rework it for $200 isn't ideal BUT if the prop I choose isn't quite there, could a good shop tweak it a little if I provide them good data? I have two prop shops that are both 2 hours away in opposite directions. I'd love to try props out but don't want to be making the 4 hour round trip more than once. Is there a good online shop that will ship props to try?
Thanks!