Merc vs. Volvo - best punch for the buck...

[RubberFrog]

Re: Merc vs. Volvo - best punch for the buck...

That's just silly logic, bruce.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Merc vs. Volvo - best punch for the buck...

I suppose if you have no idea how to handle a boat, or use trim, then perhaps they are even nicer.

I know...I was just agreeing with you.

Believe it or not, I was actually interested in how you formed your opinion.

 

[RubberFrog]

Re: Merc vs. Volvo - best punch for the buck...

Believe it or not, I was actually interested in how you formed your opinion.

Fair enough.

Here's how I formed my opinion-
The original poster was talking about a 4.3. When I read that, I assume "smaller boat." Then I think, "what's the difference between a 4.3 and 5.0 in $$?" And then I think "what's the difference between single prop and duo prop in $$?" Finally, I ask myself "what kind of benefits did I associate with the duoprop on boats I've personally driven with duoprop vs boats without duoprop?"

I factor all that together and come to the conclusion that the performance/handling benefits don't exceed the cost and therefore the duoprop is not worth it- in regards to smaller boats.

If money were unlimited I would recommend a big block and duo prop on every boat.

As an aside, I realize that this is the big-boy/mechanics forum. Sadly, I am a maintenance only guy. It may be that I am wholly unqualified to express an opinion in the presence of such august company.

 

[QC]

Re: Merc vs. Volvo - best punch for the buck...

Well I for one understand your opinion Frogger, and tend to agree with you with the exception of prop torque (can't fix that without helm adjustable tabs), and the reverse performance. Also, I don't think any of these improvements can be rationalised financially. Especially any fuel economy discussion. The only reason that I ever contradicted you was that small boats will benefit from the differences if money is not in the discussion. I have never owned one, but like you have driven a few.

There are downsides. They are not good for over 60 MPH, so you will rarely see them on a go fast boat that actually goes fast . . . Also, the prop replacement discussion is a legit one, that being another reason that small boaters maybe should shy away. They are heavier. Bravo 3s have had some corrosion issues due to the larger mass of the propellers. Also, I don't understand the need for them on twin installations unless the extra hole shot is needed. Seems like an unnecessary expense when you already have opposite turning props . . .

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Merc vs. Volvo - best punch for the buck...

I have owned quite a few boats. This is my first duoprop. Just the ability to get up on plane quickly is worth the investment. I notice the difference between my boat and a another similar powered boat the most when I boat up at Lake Tahoe and with a large number of people on board.

I tend to agree that on smaller boats, the advantage is less.

I will never buy another boat without it.