Re: Prop for 05' Tahoe Q4 SF 4.3
Scottjima:<br />The majority of answers which are posted are trying to find the correct prop to do all of the work that it was never intended to do. Classic answers which completely ignore the second and most important part of boat performance - The hull design! Prop s are not the only answer!<br /><br />Let's take a closer look at your wish list!<br />"1. I would like to be able to plane faster, at slower speeds.<br />2. In no wake areas, it seems to drift side to side.<br />3. I would like more control when making turns at higher speeds."<br /><br />In addition to the above you have stated that the boat runs at the max RPM even with a full load.<br /><br />Wish #1 is for better acceleration to plane, but since you have only one "gear" (prop pitch) and you are at the limit now in WOT RPMs you can't (or should not) go lower. More blades will help on the low end but can reduce performance at the high end and on deep V hulls they may induce a torque list to port.<br /><br />The reason your hole shot is slow and the bow rise is high is due to boat balance. Most power boats are stern loaded, and the seating is to the stern (extra people). The Q4 is a deep V hull which is designed to handle and ride better in a chop as well as go faster at WOT. However when the boat accelerates the stern cuts into the water and the bow goes for the path of least resistance (the air). <br /><br />Being able to "temporarily" change the hull design to give immediate stern lift upon acceleration would be a significant advantage, because the boat will gain the speed needed to support the hull - getting on plane. Props do not change boat attitude. Trim Tabs Do!<br /><br />The #2 wish has absolutely nothing to do with a prop. (keep in mind that props are for propelling). The reason the boat "wanders" at slow speeds is simple, the keel / bow is deep in the water and the boat is bow steering. Trim Tabs will correct this if deployed down (Smart Tabs do it automatically) because they are mounted on each side of the transom and resist the "crabbing" from side to side. It is a great side benefit.<br /><br />#3 wish is also a Hull design issue. The steering ribs on the bottom are supposed to keep the boat from sliding in turns, however the deep V shape allows the boat to list easily in turns. Deploying the inside tabs in a turn (slightly) will keep the boat from listing too much, it will anchor the turn, and avoid the sliding. Again this is not a prop function, it is a hull function. I understand that a four or five bladed prop will "hold" the water better in a turn but this is extra resistance on the prop which will result in reduced speed in turns and increased fuel usage. Smart Tabs automatically adjust in turns. Less lean, sharper turns, and faster turns. <br /><br />Now if you really want top speed and the biggest bang for the buck. Use Smart Tabs for the improved hull efficiency and performance, then add a performance prop like Turning Point 3 bladed cupped aluminum in one pitch higher than your current. You should pick up about 5 to 6 MPH, and have everything on your wish list.
