Which prop to buy?

[CurrentObsession]

I have a new to me 1998 SeaRay 290 DA with twin 5.7 EFI/ Alpha drives, 1.47 ratio. Original Vengeance 14x19 3 blade SS props need to be replace due to damage.

I'm wondering if 20 years after original Mfg chose these props, if there isn't a better choice out there?

I would prefer to use aluminum props as I've heard they will usually take the brunt of any collisions and maybe save an outdrive, but someone recently told me that they don't make counter rotating aluminum props. Also, more concerned about being able to get on plane more than top end speed.

Boat has a dry weight of 10,500 lbs.

Any suggestions are welcome.

 

[211libwtfo]

You’re gonna need wot rpm and speed. And from good sources to get your best results. But not to run you off, ken at bandofboaters is the end all be all on prop selection and is a dealer. He can get a good start with boat size weight style.

 

[cmmetcalf]

Contact The Hill's son and father at Hill Marine.2683 Hallady Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705 714-855-2986 or 800-762-0309. I just bought a set of Bravo 3 4x4s from them. Beautiful props and they will take the time to talk to you about what you want and need. They have 3, 4 and 5 blade with pitches ranging from 15 to 23 in stainless cupped blades.

 

[CurrentObsession]

You’re gonna need wot rpm and speed.

I was wondering about that.....Ill try to research wot, I would assume that is a well know thing for that vintage MCM motor (1998 5.7 EFI 260 HP) I can't know speed without buying new props and trying them.

 

[CurrentObsession]

Research online seems to indicate that motor should do 4400-4800 rpm WOT.
My new gear ratio will be 1.5 (new SEI drives)

 

[QBhoy]

You’ll be after some big diameter and probably slightly lower pitch props to get what your after, I’d think.
Lots of guys I know have went to the big 16x16 props on single engine carb 5.7’s around the 26-30ft mark.
Yours being twin engines might need a bit more thought.
Best to try some props out. You won’t go too far wrong replacing like for like with what you have. Or if you are adventures and money is no object, maybe try out a pair of counter set up 17” rev 4 props.

 

[porscheguy]

+1 on large diameter. The vengeance is just a stainless casting of an aluminum prop. Their smallish diameter and low grip is probably why you were able to get away with them in 19p.

I recommend the mirage plus a lot. I’m gonna recommend it again. The 17p has a 15.5” diameter. It’s meant for a large variety of heavy boats with v8 engines.

You asked about aluminum, but aluminum props haven’t changed much in 20 years. Honestly, the mirage plus is a bit old school as well. But it’s a good prop and easy to find used. And in pitches like 17, you can often find counter rotating.

 

[dingbat]

I’ve been running a modified 14.25 x 17, (4-blade) Offshore Renegade for a number of years.

Can’t complain about performance but went shopping for new technology this year. After consulting with a well respected prop guru I ended up with a 15x15 Enertia.

Totally different prop design from the Renegade. Ordered a set of vent plugs to play with the hole shot.

So far so good. Spring Trophy season starts in 2 weeks so we’ll see how it works in the slop with the boat loaded up

 

[211libwtfo]

Research online seems to indicate that motor should do 4400-4800 rpm WOT.
My new gear ratio will be 1.5 (new SEI drives)

Ken will get ya close and pretty sure he’ll work with ya as long as you don’t chew it up

 

[QBhoy]

+1 on large diameter. The vengeance is just a stainless casting of an aluminum prop. Their smallish diameter and low grip is probably why you were able to get away with them in 19p.

I recommend the mirage plus a lot. I’m gonna recommend it again. The 17p has a 15.5” diameter. It’s meant for a large variety of heavy boats with v8 engines.

You asked about aluminum, but aluminum props haven’t changed much in 20 years. Honestly, the mirage plus is a bit old school as well. But it’s a good prop and easy to find used. And in pitches like 17, you can often find counter rotating.

I’d agree with the above totally. Just couldn’t think of a stainless with these characteristics. The mirage plus sounds ideal !