Inboard Propeller Selection

[white hawk]

Hi guys, another inboard fan here. I've got a '79 23 footer, 350 chev/Mercruiser conversion-260 hp. I too am running the 16X17 with a slight cup in it and get 34 mph top speed. Out of the hole is good and I do use 12X12 Bennets. I cruise at 22/25 mph and love the ride. Here in Jupiter the inlet is somewhat notorious for the standing men created when tide fights wind. Some Coasties capsized a 23 boat in it a while back. The Seacraft with it's low center of gravity bulls through this mess keeping me high and dry. Love it. I've heard the four blade will improve hole shot but you will size down a little on diam and pitch. All the wisdom I hear is that prop selection is largely trial and error. Sheesh. Luckily a local prop shop let's you borrow what they call "try props". Saves a lot of money.