Posts: 3508
Location: Elk River, Minnesota | Hiya,
I would say that is a good idea. With the anti ventilation plate at the lowest point on the hull, it is actually too low on the boat. I run an alumacraft Navigator and can honestly say you could have that motor moved up probably 2 holes and it will perform well. In many cases on boats such as our is the anti-ventilation plate is most efficient when anywhere from 2 to 3 inches above that lowest point on the transom...reason: as soon as the boat passes, water starts to fill the hole the boat made. Moving the motor up will gain you about 200 rpms.
Now...with that motor and boat, 2 guys, gear etc. I would bet going to a 19 pitch prop will be about right (as stated). I would consider the pro-series by yamaha or a ballistic by michigan. The ballistic may even give you an increase in rpm as well since the blades are thinner but still just a durable The pro series is a vented prop and will definitely help hole shot. If you go stainless, move the motor to it's highest mounting hole...as far out of the water as you can get it on the transom. It will hold and you will not have any issues with loss of water pressure...
If you can, I would suggest going out just you and your gear, and see how your numbers show up with a 19 pitch. I would bet you will see right around the 6000 mark. When you get over-pitched, even by 2 inches, it can really hold down your motor since it is working so hard. I tried both a 19 pitch ballistic and a 19 pitch pro series on my boat and my rpms went from 5400 on my 17 pitch ballistic to 4600 trimmed.... It's amazing what can happen when you start to find the sweet spot.
Steve |
