Prop advice for 50hp mercury

Ruari 29 · 17 August 2011, 13:50

Hello all, just had my "new to me" searider 5.4 in the water for the first time and was struggling to plane with the 50hp merc, there was only myself and partner on the boat.
The prop looks tiny compared to my old 70hp.
My question: has any one upgraded the prop on a 50hp or can recommend a reasonable priced option or company.

Turbodiesel · 17 August 2011, 20:15

Try a 4 bladed prop, what pitch are you using at the min, and what RPM are you reaching? I think from memory you want to be right up at 6000rpm to get the best out if that engine.

Devonmark35 · 17 August 2011, 21:05

Quote:

Originally Posted by Turbodiesel

Try a 4 bladed prop, what pitch are you using at the min, and what RPM are you reaching? I think from memory you want to be right up at 6000rpm to get the best out if that engine.

We had a "13" going well with a similar setup before the engine overheated! Thanks for sorting that out mate ;-)

Ruari 29 · 17 August 2011, 21:09

Wish I could tell you turbodiesel, just bought the boat and rev counter has been disconnected. How do you measure pitch, prop has been painted so no markings

Downhilldai · 17 August 2011, 21:34

The dimensions are cast into the hub-side of one of the blades.

Alternatively, if you remove the prop, there will be a part number or dia x pitch dimensions cast into the forward face of the hub (assuming it's a genuine Merc/Quicksilver prop).

I have a 12" pitch prop here, which may interest you.