Water Skiing Prop Suggestions

[Boardwalk North]

I'm looking for help specing out a new prop for my 19' SmokerCraft. I have a 2003 Mercruiser 4.3L Fuel Injected Alpha One Sterndrive. This motor combo is rated at 220 HP. Current prop is an aluminum 3 blade, but that's all I know now. It is in need of replacement and I really want to maximize my ability to pull people out of the water.

I don't know my typical WOT RPM, nor my typical load (but say 4 people typcially when skiing).

What more is needed in the way of spec's and data to properly size a prop?

Thanks,
Jon

[gf2020]

You need to know the current prop diameter and pitch, your current RPMs at WOT, and what the max RPM rating is for your engine.

[trfour]

Here's some info that will help; http://www.acepropeller.com/ski-tow.asp

Terry
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[BroadHopper]

I will definitely go with a 4 blade.

The mercruiser website has a prop selector software to give you a good start.

[DBreskin]

The manufacturer and part number of your current prop should be stamped on the hub; the diameter and pitch may also be included. You can use the part number to look up the pitch.
It will be difficult for you to choose a new prop without knowing your current prop.

[VitaBene]

I'm looking for help specing out a new prop for my 19' SmokerCraft. I have a 2003 Mercruiser 4.3L Fuel Injected Alpha One Sterndrive. This motor combo is rated at 220 HP. Current prop is an aluminum 3 blade, but that's all I know now. It is in need of replacement and I really want to maximize my ability to pull people out of the water.

I don't know my typical WOT RPM, nor my typical load (but say 4 people typcially when skiing).

What more is needed in the way of spec's and data to properly size a prop?

Thanks,
Jon

Your current prop has the pitch marked on it somewhere. I would say you will be looking at a replacing your existing 19P or 21P with 17P using 3 blade or 18P using 4 blade. Check in with local yards, they may have some used props you can try out.

[MAXUM]

Higher the pitch the lower the RPM at cruising speed and usually you gain a little bit on the top end for speed.

Lower the pitch and you'll get better hole shot (good for pulling people) but you'll be pushing the engine at a higher RPM at cruising speed.

Chances are if you have a stock prop on there it's a 3 blade 21 pitch aluminum. I would suggest you get a 20 pitch 4 blade aluminum. The added blade gives you a much better bite on the water and better hole shot and because it's got 4 blades, the drop in pitch will not affect the RPM at cruising speed. It's really a superior option to the 3 blade as there are no compromises and minor price difference. Just my .02 cents and observation with my cousin's 20 footer with the same powerplant.

[Just Sold]

OK with all the discussion as to the best prop for pulling a skier can I assume that a 21 pitch prop gives better fuel economy when compared to a 19 or 17 pitch prop that helps with pulling a skier thus poor fuel ecomnomy?

[NH_boater]

Not necessarily. This is a common misconception but the engine may be working harder and therefore using more fuel with the increased pitch.