Water Skiing Prop Suggestions
 

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

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.

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

Terry
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4 blade
 

I will definitely go with a 4 blade.

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

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.

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.

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.

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?

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