a little prop question...

[mrwillis]

I also posted this same idea on the mechanics forum, but I know the more eyes that see this, the more input and reply I would get. SO, here is a copy of what I posted there:

I'm not an idiot when it comes to boats, nor to motors, but I've never had a reason to understand prop pitch and proper proper
"numbers" for increased performance. I have a 17-foot BassTracker Pro17...and it is a great boat. It has a 1992 motor on it...the
"Tracker" model. It is a 40-hp and runs great; however, my family uses it for more than just fishing. We swim off of it, boat around
with it, and even pull our small kids on a tube with it. However, i've gotten into fishing some bigger water, and would like a little more
speed for it. The motor run amazing, and the size is perfect for the boat. However, is there a prop that would give me some more speed,
and if so, what am I looking for? How many blades, what pitch, etc...and about how much more speed does it actually add?

Just inquiring!

mrwillis

[Davey Jones]

Need to know how many rpm's you are turning and what the max is for your motor also the gps speed. There are calculators that let you know slip and different props can possibly lessen that and you need to be able to keep your rpm's at wot ( loaded like you normallyuse it) at the upper end of your motors limit. Dont forget to check where the anti-ventilation plate rides in the water when trimmed out on plane.

[CrappiePappy]

but I'm thinking that with a 17ft Tracker & a 40HP motor ... even the "best" prop isn't going to give you much in the way of more speed, outside of a couple of MPH at best.

Then there's THIS : How to Get More Speed Out of My Tracker Boat | eHow.com

... cp

[Barnacle Bill]

About Boat and Marine Propellers (props)

[M R Dux]

Normally, to get more top-end speed, you are going to sacrifice hole-shot and low end performance, like when tubing.

I ran Skeeter bass boats for years and tried to set mine up for best hole-shot when FULLY LOADED including water in the live well and full of fuel but still staying under the maximum recommended top-end rpms. I used to love to see the guys who ran strictly top-end props like choppers who had to endure getting beat to death in low to medium speed situations. Give me a good loaded hole-shot and medium speed rough water performance any day.

I would be looking at 4 blade props for your set-up.

[Cray]

You are going to find very few options for props and sizes for your 40. With options available you could maybe gain 3-4mph which is not worth the money and aggravation in my opinion. If it ain't broke don't go broke trying to fix it.

[kyjohn]