Prop selection 20' MA 175 Mariner

[Bigshrimpin]

Originally Posted by Chaser

I have a couple of questions regarding the propeller on my Master Angler 20. I'm not a prop guy, know nothing about them, so pardon my ignorance. I'm just trying to get some info.

The boat is a MA 20 with a re-built 175 HP Mariner 2 stroke. I put the boat together two seasons ago, and its run great every step of the way. Its got excellent hole shot, and good top end speed, maxing out at about 38 knots with one person and minimal fuel. Cruises at 25 knots at about 4000 RPM using 10 GPH.

As I mentioned I know nothing about props, and I don't even know what is on there, since it came with the motor when I bought it re-built.

The only problem I have is the boat doesn't want to stay on plane with RPM's lower than about 3800-4k. At that RPM I'm doing about 22-25 knots, but any lower R's and it will slowly fall off plane and slow down. I'd like to be able to cruise a little slower for fuel economy. Like I said everything else about the boat/motor works great, and I'm very pleased.

Is it worth even considering a new prop, will I get any benefit in fuel economy? I don't mind sacrificing top end speed but would like to keep the acceleration I have.

Trim Tabs and 17P Mirage or Enertia. What year is that engine?