Need help/suggestions on new prop

[JALBERS]

I have a 2003 183ss with the 4.3 merc alpha 1. It currently has a 3 blade 14 1/4 x 21 prop. The only other marking on it says "turbo". I'm looking for a prop for a better hole shot to get water toys up faster. Probably a 4 blade. Not worried about losing a little speed on the top end. What size and pitch should I look for?

Thanks for your help

 

[Scott06]

I have a 2003 183ss with the 4.3 merc alpha 1. It currently has a 3 blade 14 1/4 x 21 prop. The only other marking on it says "turbo". I'm looking for a prop for a better hole shot to get water toys up faster. Probably a 4 blade. Not worried about losing a little speed on the top end. What size and pitch should I look for?

Thanks for your help

What is your current WOT rpm performance ? Yes 4 blade will help with water toys. I have run four blades on my last two boats because my use is entirely loaded down watersports.

I assume your current prop is SS as it is made by Turbo ? There proably are marking inside the hub by the flange where nut holds it to prop shaft

Turbo Boat Propeller Right Hand 14 1/4 x 15 Pitch Stainless VO142515RA | eBay

Across the back of the hub with (19) splines. - Turbo # VO142515RA. We are not bound by typographical errors resulting in inaccuracies with regard to prices, product specifications or availability. - Stainless steel.

www.ebay.com

 

[JALBERS]

What is your current WOT rpm performance ? Yes 4 blade will help with water toys. I have run four blades on my last two boats because my use is entirely loaded down watersports.

I assume your current prop is SS as it is made by Turbo ? There proably are marking inside the hub by the flange where nut holds it to prop shaft

Turbo Boat Propeller Right Hand 14 1/4 x 15 Pitch Stainless VO142515RA | eBay

Across the back of the hub with (19) splines. - Turbo # VO142515RA. We are not bound by typographical errors resulting in inaccuracies with regard to prices, product specifications or availability. - Stainless steel.

www.ebay.com

I'm running about 4400 rpm. Owners manual says max should 4400-4800.

 

[Scott Danforth]

if going to a 4 blade, adding a blade, will drop your RPM. I would drop down in pitch to bring your RPMs up.

you are currently at a 3-blade, 21p. I would shoot for a 4-blade, 19p. work with your local prop shop. they may have a prop for you to try.

 

[Scott06]

Agree with Scott here, try a 19" four blade. Some run in even pitches.

If you wanted an inexpensive prop to try I had good luck with Michigan Vortex 4 blade props, was a cheap way to cut my teeth with prop swapping.

https://www.amazon.com/Vortex-992203-14-1-Blade-Propeller/dp/B0000AXTP0/ref=asc_df_B0000AXTP0/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312177424933&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14962591532089495796&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007369&hvtargid=pla-574196776012&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=64958377347&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312177424933&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14962591532089495796&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007369&hvtargid=pla-574196776012

If you want to go stainless I have had really good luck with a Merc Revolution 4 but they are pricey props that have a lot of bite. They are available in inch increments so best if you can find a prop shop to let u try before you buy. Also had good luck with a mercury Vensura (aka Offshore).

If you prop it so you are close to 4800 at WOT you will have best performance in terms of acceleration and throttle response.