I can use a prop calculator to show the probable differences in performance between different pitched props. But what about diameter?
How much difference is there between a 14", 14 1/2" and 15" diameter prop?
My boat is 24' long and weighs about 4000 pounds unloaded (1996 Four Winns 240 Horizon - bowrider). Pushed by a 260hp Mercruiser (not the original engine).
The manufacturer tested the boat with a 14 1/2 x 19 prop and published their specs off of this prop. I've driven the boat with a 15 1/4 x 15 prop and a 14 x 17 prop. And I haven't come close to the manufacturers specs.
I know that the manufacturer probably tested the boat unloaded with 1 person or something..but, still, I'm not close. And, by the prop calculator, I'm getting more slippage with the 14 diameter prop. So, I like the thought of the 15" diameter.
I'm wondering what would be the best prop for me.... and am wondering what the difference would show between a 14", 14 1/2", and 15" diameter. I'm thinking that a 19 pitch may be over-propping the boat and am thinking of trying a 15x17.
Just want to see what everyone thinks.. if you have a similar size, weight and horsepower boat, I'd like to hear about your trials and errors were when finding your right prop.
How much difference is there between a 14", 14 1/2" and 15" diameter prop?
My boat is 24' long and weighs about 4000 pounds unloaded (1996 Four Winns 240 Horizon - bowrider). Pushed by a 260hp Mercruiser (not the original engine).
The manufacturer tested the boat with a 14 1/2 x 19 prop and published their specs off of this prop. I've driven the boat with a 15 1/4 x 15 prop and a 14 x 17 prop. And I haven't come close to the manufacturers specs.
I know that the manufacturer probably tested the boat unloaded with 1 person or something..but, still, I'm not close. And, by the prop calculator, I'm getting more slippage with the 14 diameter prop. So, I like the thought of the 15" diameter.
I'm wondering what would be the best prop for me.... and am wondering what the difference would show between a 14", 14 1/2", and 15" diameter. I'm thinking that a 19 pitch may be over-propping the boat and am thinking of trying a 15x17.
Just want to see what everyone thinks.. if you have a similar size, weight and horsepower boat, I'd like to hear about your trials and errors were when finding your right prop.