Prop help

sailor · **Posted:** Wed Mar 12, 2014 5:32 pm

I'm running a 2002 Starcraft 196 w/merc 125hp not happy with my 21 pitch when I'm up on plane I'm at max rpm 5200 and max trim at 36mph

I went from a 19 pitch and max rpm and not full trim at top speed 34mph

The weird thing is my rpm never changed just my trim level

The boat pops out of the hole fast too
Guess I'm looking for more top end and better cruising once on plane

BATMAN · **Posted:** Wed Mar 12, 2014 7:05 pm

Sailor,

First, picking a prop by yourself can be very frustrating because dealers don't want to order a range of props in, for you to try. Your best starting points are either your original dealers help or using an online Mercury prop calculator for help.

Because you mentioned trim was not making much of an RPM change, I suspect you need a prop that gives you better bow lift. Your engine may also perform better if it were higher on the transom. These changes could get you a couple hundred RPM's closer to your engines recommended WOT.

What is this recommended RPM for your engine?

If I was spending your money I'd stay with the 21" pitch but go to a stainless steel Laser II. Too bad a prop like this is probably well over $500. Just guessing.

Good Luck,
BATMAN

sunrisecottageresort · **Posted:** Wed Mar 12, 2014 7:27 pm

Give Donna a call at Pete's Prop. They know their props. 613 968 2667

Superdad · **Posted:** Thu Mar 13, 2014 8:00 am

Hey Sailor

I saw a piece on the Next Bite TV show and thought this might be a place for you to check out for your prop selection.

Hope it Helps

David aka Superdad

http://www.mercurymarine.com/propellers/prop-selector/#

Walleye 9 · **Joined:** Mon Jan 24, 2011 12:05 pm **Posts:** 1985

There is Mercury dealer just north of Cobourg on Rice Lake. It's called Harris Boat Works. They will let you try out different props on the water so you can actually see what the differences are. I had my boat in there last year for service, and they suggested I do the same thing, as I'm not running at the proper RPM for that specific motor. Unfortunately they don't have mechanics in on the weekend, so I haven't done it yet.
Their shop is right on the water, so it makes very easy to test your boat out before you make a decision.

Hope this helps

Walleye 9 · **Joined:** Mon Jan 24, 2011 12:05 pm **Posts:** 1985

They told me that going with a lower pitch would increase my RPM, and would be faster out of the hole, but would lower my top speed. A higher pitch would be the other way around. Slower out of the hole, but faster top end.
I'm no prop expert...lol but just saying what they told me.

dustycraven · **Joined:** Thu Nov 25, 2010 11:59 am **Posts:** 145

If at all possible, TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Always hopeful · **Posted:** Thu Mar 13, 2014 12:53 pm

I was told the same theory, faster out of the hole the slower the top end, hope u get the set up u want
Cheers Rob

letsgofishn · **Posted:** Thu Mar 13, 2014 7:35 pm

If you prop up to a 23 pitch you should drop some rmp and get a little more top speed. Consider getting a vented prop, it'll build rpms quicker out of the hole allowing your boat to get on plane quicker.

sweinersts · **Joined:** Thu Jan 02, 2014 9:47 am **Posts:** 10

sailor wrote:

I'm running a 2002 Starcraft 196 w/merc 125hp not happy with my 21 pitch when I'm up on plane I'm at max rpm 5200 and max trim at 36mph

I went from a 19 pitch and max rpm and not full trim at top speed 34mph

The weird thing is my rpm never changed just my trim level

The boat pops out of the hole fast too
Guess I'm looking for more top end and better cruising once on plane

Can't quite understand what you mean by "max trim" if your prop is breaking lose from the water than your cavitating or "blowing out" this has to do with air on the prop. Your WOT in RPM's seems about right with your 21" prop. Are you running SS or Aluminium ? FYI ...... I went down in pitch and up to a 4 blade prop with amazing results. 7 mph increase and cruising speed of 35 @ 3500 rpm's. My father has the same boat as you and your results are identical to his best he can do is 36 mph. My boat is a 1900 Lund Pro V Se with a 2010, 150 Evinrude ETEC HO.... diffrent hull much heavier than a Starcraft but set up is night and day. Spent alot of $$$ to find what worked for me. Top speed is 57 mph....almost too fast

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