I think I got it right!

[bunker108]

I have a 1998 Caravelle 188 with a 4.3GL Volvo Penta. We use the boat to camp at Lake Powell just under 4K' ft of elevation.

I was running a 21p three blade aluminum Volvo prop and was having a hard time getting on plane with two adults, two kids and a full load of camping gear and fuel. Once I plane I could still spin 4600 but getting on plane was a struggle.

We just returned froma weekend trip and I made some prop observations with the 19p four blade I have been running this season. On the 25 mile trip uplake fully loaded I planed quiclky and could still spin 4600 WOT at 34 mph.

The next evening I took advantage of great water and calm winds to test the prop with a light load. Just me my son and a 1/2 tank of fuel I was spinning 4800 at 42mph and stll had a little left in throttle.

I am totally pleased with the four blade Solas aluminum prop and think that this is a great all around prop for my needs.

During the off season I am going to save my pennies and spring for an SS four blade for next year!

 

[Texasmark]

Re: I think I got it right!

Ok. Sounds like a great idea. Nothing like having a proud owner. The SS will run more efficient than the alum and if the alum is not cupped and the SS is, you have an additional inch of pitch so to speak at WOT, besides better holding power in corners and rough water. In short you can expect a couple mph increase in speed with the same pitched prop in SS, same number of blades. You didn't give your engine upper rpm limit, but sounds like you have room for the SS prop in your engines performance curve.

Mark