They are available in wide size ranges and cost less than 4 blades. In general, 3 blade props are the most common. This article confines itself to the discussion of 3 and 4 blade props as these are the most common in the real world. The purpose of this article is not to explain propeller theory or hydrodynamics, but rather to point out the various options in the market place and set some common rules of thumb. This just makes it that much harder to make a decision and choose the right prop. Often times, there may be 6 or 8 different props that seem to run about the same, with differences so subtle that any of them could be considered satisfactory by most standards. Acceleration may be compromised for top speed and fuel economy, and visa versa. There is no such thing as the best or ideal prop for all applications of a similar nature. Top Speed, Cruising Speed, Hole Shot, Load Carrying, Slow-Speed Handling, Slow Trolling, Fast Trolling? Two identical boats with identical engines could be propped quite differently, depending on the usage, water conditions, and load. The two most important things to remember in choosing a propeller are that it meets your individual needs for your individual application and that it allows the engine(s) to run within the specified RPM range at full throttle. Propellers with higher rake angles and some with more surface area have been developed to maximize the power delivery of the 4-stroke torque curve. Propeller manufacturers have been busy developing new 3-blade and 4-blade products and size ranges of stainless steel propellers to meet a growing number of hull types and horsepower ranges, especially for 4-stroke engines.įour-stroke engines are designed to run at very specific RPMs, so pitch sizes have become available in 1 inch increments and new designs have appeared, each more tailored to a specific hull type and application. easier because the number of choices has doubled, and harder, for the same reason. Recent advantages in outboard technology have made choosing the correct propeller for your boat both easier and more difficult. A four or five-bladed propeller is good for anyone who spends a lot of time up on plane as they give more acceleration and lift so you can get on plane faster and save your fuel for fishing.Choosing the Right Propeller_By Neil Mullen Choosing a PropellerĪlways choose a propeller based on your needs. Mercury's Flo-Torq hub system responds similarly, giving way on impact so as to save your expensive engine and propeller from damage. One of the traditional advantages of the softer aluminium propellers is that they absorb impact, so that hitting a bank doesn't destroy your lower unit or expensive stainless steel propeller. One advantage of Mercury is the Flo-Torq hub system. At the same time, three-bladed boat propellers offer the best overall balance of top speed and overall performance. It's also better when your boat is up on plane because no matter what happens you will never have only one blade in the water with a four or five-bladed propeller. The more blades your propeller has, the quicker your boat will accelerate. At the same time, the lower cost of aluminium propellers means that there are far more options available than there are with steel propellers. Steel propellers also support venting, which can also improve overall performance. This means steel propellers flex less so they provide more speed for the same HP engine. Stainless steel is both stronger and more corrosion-resistant, but also more expensive. Aluminium is light and strong, and makes an excellent choice for most boaters. The two most common materials for marine propellers are stainless steel and aluminium. Choosing the right propeller is a matter of knowing your needs and knowing how a propeller can meet those needs. Mercury Marine propellers have been putting power to the waves for years and are the perfect complement to any Mercury outboard. It transfers the power from your engine to the water.
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