Print this article First Time Prop Replacement?
by: Sebastian Romero
| |
Are you a fan of boating, who has never replaced a propeller before? It is common to feel inexperienced in this area – particularly if you are new to the sport. Boat propellers come in a bewildering array of sizes, shapes and configurations. There is no need to be daunted, however, as searching for this vital part online allows you to find out about and browse the different types at your leisure.
Often, you will find that the aluminum or stainless propeller was made for the particular brand of boat. Although it might be the same size as other brands, they may not be compatable by design. However, check with the manual of your boat, it will say how much flexibility there is when choosing new parts.
The main factor however is to match the size of the propeller to the power of the engine – as this will make sure your boat runs at the correct balanced speed.
The best internet sites that deal in boating equipment offer to personally match the brand and size of the product with the engine and power of your boat. You should take advantage of this, as it can be hard to send important equipment like this back because it needs to be sold brand new for safety.
However, it is also impossible to perfectly match the equipment to the engine 100 per cent of the time, so many dealers offer to replace the blades rather than the whole propeller if you are dissatisfied. This works very well for both parties, as it is the size of the blades rather than the difficult to repair internal mechanism that affects the speed and power of a propeller.
Another dilemma is what material the product should be made from. Experts agree that by far the best option is a composite metal. This has been proved in certain studies to exceed the durability and performance of both stainless steel and aluminium models. Many also have a greater tensile strength than their conventional counterparts.
Check whether the manufacturer highlights the non-corrosiveness of the metal. A failure to mention this can suggest an inferior product. A lifetime warrantee is another excellent indicator of the reliability of the material.
Boat propellers have traditionally only been mended by experienced mechanics. However, manufacturers are changing this by selling mending equipment that is specially designed for thier product. This has the potential to save you much money and hassle.
Other new technology includes propellers that come with replaceable blades. The blades can now be changed by people with little experience, rather than in the past when they had to be sent back to the shop. This also limits the need for repair work that can damage the equipment in the long term – such as welding, heating, beating and bending.
Make sure that any replacement blades you buy are definitly new, however. Since it is partly the quality of the metal that controls the performance and accuracy of the propeller, it is important not to let this deteriorate over time.
Find specialist help at http://www.boat-propellers.info
Article from articlecity.com
The decision between purchasing an aluminum or stainless steel propeller can be difficult. However if you fully understand the differences between them, your decision can be much easier.
The most common understanding of the difference is that stainless steel propellers perform better than aluminum propellers. This is only half true. Material (Stainless vs Aluminum) only accounts for approximately 10% of the actual performance of the propeller. The other 90% of performance is in the blade design.
Well designed aluminum propellers will out perform an average stainless steel boat propeller. So it's important to research a propeller's performance before your purchase. It is also important to try different pitches and brands to get your boat dialed in to the best possible propeller.
The advantage of a stainless steel propeller over aluminum is durability. Stainless props can withstand more of the damage caused by small rocks, sand, or other loose objects in the water.
However, the disadvantage to a stainless propeller is that there is “minimal give" to the blades, so if you hit an object hard enough, there is a possibility of causing major damage to your lower unit is increased greatly. With aluminum props, the blades will most likely sacrifice themselves before any damage is caused to your lower unit.
If you run in deep or familiar waters, or in salt/brackish water, a stainless steel propeller can be a good choice. But it is important to always carry a spare propeller on board, and a spare aluminum is an inexpensive choice. Boat propellers are the least expensive way to upgrade the performance of your boat.
We've clarified a few facts about propellers, to help you to understand more about. If you are ready to purchase a prop, use the Prop Wizard program, it's fast and easy!
Choosing the Right Propeller
To some, choosing the right boat propeller can seem like a job for a marine service center. Anything that has to do with the backend of the boat can be a scary thing. Despite popular belief, choosing the correct propeller for a particular boat and motor is actually a fairly simple thing to do, once you understand what a propeller really is.
First think of propeller as a gear, whether it be on a car or even a bicycle. The lower the gear, faster hole shot, more power, but revolutions are much faster so at a point you can only turn that gear so fast until you over rev the engine (or you legs). Now think of your car stuck in only 5th or 6th gear, very slow out of the hole, little torque, but eventually it will catch up with itself so you can cruise to a good speed.
The same basic concept applies to propellers, except with a prop you are committed to only one “gear". So what to do now? Find the prop size that will give the best overall performance. Sound difficult? It's really not.
Your engine has a recommended wide open throttle rpm range. Let take an example of an 18' boat with a 125 hp engine with a rpm range of 4500-5500. In most cases you purchase a boat with some sort of propeller on it. Let's say this motor has a 21 pitch prop on it and at wide open throttle under a normal boat load, the engine turns 4900 rpms. Well it's in the range so it's the correct prop, right? Well yes and no. For the health and longevity of the engine it's okay, but for overall performance, you want to run a propeller near the top of the range. Well how do you change the size to get that?
Remember this rule of thumb: For every 2" of propeller pitch, rpm's will change approximately 400 rpm's. As you drop in pitch, rpm's increase, and as you go up in pitch, rpm's decrease. So if we want to raise our rpm's we should choose a lower pitch prop. Following the rule, going down to a 19 pitch should raise our rpm's to about 5300. That would help the hole shot and also gain us some more speed.
As you follow the rule of thumb, remember that sometimes rules are meant to be broken. This is not an iron clad rule, sometimes varying 2" of pitch will only change rpm's by 200. Switching prop brands or manufacturer, it can sometimes throw off the rule too.
At this point the most important thing to understand is that less pitch means more rpm's, more pitch means less rpms. For your boat to perform at its peak, you need to run at the upper end of your engine's recommended rpm range. That's it. Once you're there and still want more speed, handling, lift, etc, that's when choosing the right propeller brand comes into play.
Here's a simple adjustment you can make to improvement performance under varying boatloads: If you normally run with one other person on board, use that boatload as your measurement when determining your wide open throttle rpm's. But if you sometimes load the boat with 2-5 more people or try pulling a water skier or tube, get another prop 2" of pitch lower than your normal prop. It will compensate for added weight and drag and make a huge improvement on performance in these circumstances. But remember to keep an eye on you rpm's when running a lower pitch for these circumstances.
Most props have the size marked somewhere on the prop, either on the barrel, on the blades, or in the front or back of the propeller. Use that pitch that you're currently running as your starting point. If it's already running correctly then that pitch is your pitch.
Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel
The decision between purchasing an aluminum or stainless steel propeller can be difficult. However if you fully understand the differences between them, your decision can be much easier.
The most common understanding of the difference is that stainless steel propellers perform better than aluminum propellers. This is only half true. Material (Stainless vs Aluminum) only accounts for approximately 10% of the actual performance of the propeller. The other 90% of performance is in the blade design.
Well designed aluminum propellers will out perform an average stainless steel propeller. So it's important to research a propeller's performance before your purchase. It is also important to try different pitches and brands to get your boat dialed in to the best possible propeller.
The advantage of a stainless steel propeller over aluminum is durability. Stainless props can withstand more of the damage caused by small rocks, sand, or other loose objects in the water.
However, the disadvantage to a stainless propeller is that there is “minimal give" to the blades, so if you hit an object hard enough, there is a possibility of causing major damage to your lower unit is increased greatly. With aluminum props, the blades will most likely sacrifice themselves before any damage is caused to your lower unit.
If you run in deep or familiar waters, or in salt/brackish water, a stainless steel propeller can be a good choice. But it is important to always carry a spare propeller on board, and a spare aluminum is an inexpensive choice.
Why not run a damaged propeller?
Continuing to use a damaged boat propeller can cause damage to the gearcase and ultimately the power head of your motor. When a propeller has sustained damage, it will not spin true, thus creating excessive vibrations that will transfer all the way into your motor.
A damaged propeller will also not perform as well as a new propeller because the damaged parts of the blade can degrade hydrodynamic efficiency.
What is pitch?
Propeller pitch is the theoretical forward movement of a propeller for one revolution, assuming that there is no prop slip. For example, a 21 pitch propeller will theoretically move 21 inches for every revolution. Propeller slip occurs with every propeller, but the amount of slip varies depending on propeller design. More aggressively and efficiently designed propellers will slip less.
When selecting a propeller pitch for your boat, it is important that the propeller runs at the upper end of your engines wide-open-throttle RPM range. If you want your RPM's to increase, go down in pitch. To decrease RPM's, go up in pitch. As a general guide, for every 2" of pitch, RPM's will change approximately 400 RPM's.
For water sports or extra people on board, you should generally drop 2" of pitch to help compensate for the added weight and drag on your boat. It makes a noticeable difference in your boat's hole shot, fuel efficiency, RPM's, and overall performance. You should ALWAYS carry a spare propeller on board, and if you're into water sports or occasionally load the boat with extra people, a spare prop with a lesser pitch is a good idea. When thinking a propeller pitch, compare it to a gear on car - lower gear, higher RPM's.
The same pitch from different manufacturers will run slightly different RPM's due to a difference in blade design. Speed differences among the same pitch from various manufacturers will vary even more. For example a 17 pitch from one brand could run up to 7 mph faster than a 17 pitch from another brand.
Pitch is the 2nd two digits that are listed in a propeller item description (14-1/4 x 19, 19 is the pitch, 14-1/4 is the diameter)
What is diameter?
Propeller diameter is distance across the imaginary circle that a spinning propeller makes. It can be easily determined by measuring the distance from the center of the hub to the tip of one of the blades and multiplying that number by 2.
Diameters between different propeller manufacturers may vary slightly. For example for a V6 outboard application, Turning Point uses a 14-1/4" diameter where a different manufacturer may use a 14-1/2" diameter. This small variance does not affect your performance as much as the pitch and overall design. However, larger diameter propellers - 15" or 16" diameter - are designed for larger boat applications - 23 ft +, and are not ideal for 15" - 22" foot run-a-bouts. These larger boats need more blade area to push more water.
What is rake?
Propeller rake is the degree that a propeller blade is angled in relation to the hub. Props with higher rake typically have better speeds and greater lift. The better performing propellers typically have between 20 - 30 degree rake angles.
What is cupping?
Propeller cupping is the curved lip at the trailing edge and/or tip of the propeller. Cupping helps the propeller to get a better grip in the water for better holding at higher trim and on turns. Cupping also increases the efficiency of a propeller and can result in higher top end speeds when properly designed.
What are vent holes?
Vent holes are holes behind each blade designed to aid in the hole shot of a propeller. When accelerating from neutral, these holes allow some exhaust bubbles to flow through and flood the blades. The prop is then spinning through more turbulent water, thus gaining RPM's and speed more quickly. After approximately 1000 RPM's, the exhaust flows rapidly enough that is will bypass the holes and flow through the hub, eliminating any further slippage from the holes.
This performance feature can only be found in stainless steel propellers. However Turning Point is the only one to offer this feature in aluminum propellers as well.
Mid-Range & High Performance Series
40 - 300 hp w/ 4-1/4" & 4-3/4" gearcases
Too many prop manufacturers throw the term "high performance" around, when in fact poor performance should be the correct term. The ONLY high performance aluminum propeller available is a Hustler propellerf from Turning Point. They incorporate designs that boost a boat's overall performance. Not all boat propellers are created equal. In fact, Hustler Aluminum Propellers are the best performing props available. In some cases, this prop will outperform a stainless steel propeller!
Turning Point's Hustler High Performance Series aluminum propellers now feature the newly designed MasterGuard Hub System. Created specifically to give boats a higher top-end speed, better handling, a faster hole shot and more efficiency, Hustler propellers maximize overall performance. These props incorporate the same high performance designs found in stainless steel props to give boaters a less expensive way to gain stainless steel-like performance.
The High Performance Series is designed for all engines ranging from 40 hp to 300 hp with 4-1/4" to 4-3/4" gearcases. The interchangeable hub allows boaters to save money on future prop purchases, since spare or different pitched propellers don't require another hub purchase.
Turning Point recommends that every boat have a spare propeller onboard to insure a day on the water isn't ruined by a broken prop or to allow for adjustments in different situations. Using a prop 2" in pitch less makes a big difference when more people are onboard or the boat is being used for watersports. The smaller pitch helps offset the added weight and drag on the motor and increases performance under these circumstances.
Use our Prop Wizard program to help you select the right boat prop for you boat and motor combination!
If you want to learn more about props, please visit our Propellers 101 section
B. Bessent.
Wow! It seems like a new boat! The old prop pushed the boat through the water like it was mud. I never could pull a skier. The new (Turning Point) prop pulled two skiers like nothing."
Bayliner 16’
Force 70hp, Hustler 15 pitch propeller
L. Miller.
The hole shot seems much better than the factory prop. Holds well in turns and is easy to install. Appears very sturdy & well designed with bigger than factory blades. I would choose this prop over the factory prop. I will leave this prop on my boat and use the factory prop as a spare.
Starcraft 16
Mercury 60 EFI, Hustler 14 pitch
R. Hanson.
“I was very impressed with the torque I felt with the Turning Point prop. The increase in power and smoothness was very noticeable. Easy installation. Great in turns, a lot better than the stock prop."
SmokerCraft 17
Johnson 115, Hustler 19 pitch
P. Bologna.
“The holding with the Turning Point prop is awesome!"
G3, Yamaha 90hp, Hustler 17 pitch
M. Gelfond.
“Having worked in the tool and dye industry for the past 25 years, I must say that this prop is one of the finest quality."
SeaRay 17, Mercruiser, Hustler 17 pitch
A. Rognervo.
"The Turning Point Hustler prop felt solid throughout the performance test. I'd say it compares favorably with my stainless steel prop. I did experience a bit of speed loss, however no speed loss with an additional passenger. I did get to plane faster with the test (Hustler) prop."
Hustler 17 pitch
D. Scheunemann.
"Turning Point test prop: planed the boat quicker with a faster hole shot. This is a very good prop."
Alumnacraft 163, Mercury 60, Hustler 14 pitch
J. Hedstrom.
"The boat feels like a bullet with the Turning Point prop. It's a higher, drier ride."
N. Treida. Flower Mound, TX
”The Turning Point prop put the boat on plane faster than my stainless steel prop. Top speed/rpm was identical, but I got there faster with the Turning Point prop! I definetely recommend this prop."
Sylvan 16, Yamaha 55hp
Hustler 13 pitch propeller
D. Tomlinson.
“I was extremely satisfied with the performance of the prop. My standard Merc prop will now become my backup prop. I have already told 3 boaters of these results, they were also impressed. I also made a third run with another person in the boat and the boat still ran 45 mph @ 5200 rpm's. “
Lund Pro Sport 17, Mercury 115, Hustler 19 pitch
New Jersey
"I am a customer who you recently bought a used Hustler Propeller 23 pitch, going to
Reason, for writing you this e-mail is two -fold.
(1) The propellers work as per your companies claims and are a real value. Customer service and support, top notch.
(2) I wish a big retailer would start carrying these props, WEST Marine, BOAT US. Boaters World, made a big mistake by dropping your line.
Please, feel free to pass this message onto any buyer who may not feel that your props live up to your company claims. I have a perfect example of the average boat most people own and the advantage of this prop, value and performance.
Boat: 1998 Four Winns RS ( 18ft sport model)
Engine: 5.0 Volvo ( 220 H.P.)
Outdrive: Volvo SX
With standard OMC prop: 23 pitch topped out @ 49 MPH ( W.O.T.)
With Hustler Aluminum 23 pitch tops out @ 56 MPH ( W.O.T.)
The boat gets on plane faster and definitely feel the boat pulling much harder out of the hole. I am sure this is because of the cupped blades. Turning, on a dime. OMC, could not hold into a turn like this prop.
I use my boat in a river, that drops into bay and eventually leads out to the ocean where I go as far as 10 miles outside. This is
Keep up the good work guys. Love your product and great service."
K. Keist
“You might be interested to know that my time to plane is definitely shorter with a noticeable decrease in the amount of bow rise. To top it off I’ve seen top speeds I can’t even believe. It was 43.7 mph with and with the Hustler it is now 48.9 mph. This is definitely a High Performance Aluminum propeller, the likes of which I’m surprised someone has not come up with before now.”
G.
Dayton
“After ordering and installing Turning Point’s hub and prop on my 1995 outboard motor, I compared it to the original prop. I not only gained 3 mph top end speed, but it was also quicker to get on plane. It is a very good-looking unit and very easy to install. I bought a second prop to use
as a spare. Both the hub and prop cost me about $62.00 less than the original prop.”
K.
“The Express prop I bought completely outperformed my OEM prop. My hole shot improved and the top speed was faster by about 3 mph. I couldn’t believe how well it handled on turns.”
S. Graham
“The 23 pitch Hustler aluminum prop was outstanding in both the hole shot and top end speed. I was amazed that a prop could perform like it did.”
D. Banach.
“Just thought I would relate my experience with the HU1421A propeller as you recommended for my 2000 Marada 184 DLX with 3.0 Mercruiser versus my original propeller. The biggest difference I noticed was at cruising RPM of 3500 with the old prop boat speed was 26 mph and
with the Hustler the speed is now 31 mph.”
E. Dye
“I bought a SpeedZone prop and think it is the best money can buy. I have been fishing in bass tournaments as a professional for over 10 years and have been running performance bass boats for at least 15 years and I know what a prop can do. Turning Point prop’s are definitely the best
performing props I have used.”
T. Kohler
“I run a 1850 LS Bayliner
board. Cruise settings (3000 rpm / 32 mph) are extremely quiet and smooth. We can travel all day long on our 30 gallon tank with no fuel worries. Much smoother, efficient, and stable from no wake to WOT than the OEM prop. Made my OEM prop my “spare” prop. Thanks for the great
product.”
P.
Valatie
“In this day and age, most organizations seem to have forgotten about customer service. It is certainly refreshing to find someone who cares about their customer. I just want to say that I appreciate all the effort and I will certainly recommend you to anyone who is looking for a prop.
Thank you for your time and consideration.”
M. Baker
“I’d recommend this product because it increased speed and improved handling and range of trim on my boat. Turning Point was very helpful in getting the right prop for my outboard motor.” Bayliner BassTrophy 18’, Force 125hp, Hustler 17 pitch.
K.
Stockton
“I would recommend Turning Point Propellers because of their versatility and economy. Using their prop and hub system allows me to carry various props for situations and conditions I might come across. They are easily changeable and their reduced weight doesn’t add to my boatload. I found that the prop they sent me out performance the OEM prop.” Tracker Deep V16, Johnson 40hp, Hustler 17 pitch.
J. Fox
“Found it very easy to install. Tested on the
B.
Spokane
“My hole shot was slightly faster. I got 29-30 mph @ 4800rpm, factory prop 5000rpm for this speed. I am leaving the prop on, I feel it is a good prop.” Alumicraft 17’, Mercury 60hp, Hustler 13 pitch.
J.
“The propeller increased the overall speed of my boat by an average of 6.12%. Getting up on plane was generally quicker. In shallow water the climb out was smoother with less tendency to fall back and bottom out.” ActionCraft Flatsmaster, Evinrude 115hp, Hustler 19 pitch.
B. Spillers
“The Turning Point Hustler beat my stock propeller hands down. I gained 5 mph on the top end, and my hole shot was much quicker. It held up well. I highly recommend this product because of its durability and lightweight. I have already suggested this product to several of my fishing buddies.”
K.
Parkman
“This is an excellent prop for all situations. I like the idea of having a couple props in my boat and using only one hub kit. The performance was unbeatable.” Nitro 180TF, Mercury 150hp, Hustler 23 pitch.
T.
“Installed easily and ran smooth. Very fast to plane the boat, smooth and well balanced.” Sea Star 16’, Mercury 85hp, Hustler 19 pitch.
R.
Rogers
“The Hustler gave me better speed and fuel economy than my old stainless prop. Installation was simple. Thanks for the opportunity to test this great prop.” Stratos Fish & Ski 17’-9”, Johnson 150hp, Hustler 21 pitch.
A.
Bloomington
“I found that in waves the ride was smoother and the boat handled better. I would recommend this propeller to all fellow club members and it is a good value for the price.” SeaNymph 16’, Johnson 60hp, Hustler 15 pitch.
E.
Nanticoke
“I like this propeller because if you hit an object while trolling, you don’t have to buy a complete new prop.” Crestline 18’, Johnson 120hp, Hustler 19 pitch.
D. Sample
“I would recommend the Turning Point boat Propeller because the MasterGuard interchangeable hub allow you to use the same hub for other Turning Point housings of different pitch. The propeller is reasonably priced. Making it affordable to carry a spare.” Basstracker 175, Mercury 60hp, Hustler
14 pitch.
Tim Hugg
HI,
JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU GUYS WHAT A GREAT PROP YOU MAKE. I HAVE BEEN GOING CRAZY TRYING TO FIND A PROP THAT GETS MY 140HP JOHNSON 4 STROKE IN THE
THANK YOU.
2005 MANITOU OSPREY PRO SERIES 24 FOOT PONTOON BOAT
The North American Fishing Club (www.fishingclub.com) conducted a field test of our Hustler aluminum boat propellers. The field testers recorded their own performance test results of the Turning Point Hustler aluminum propellers versus their current propeller.
The results were unanimous! Turning Point Propellers received a 100% approval rating. Every boater that tested our propellers experienced a performance increase over their current propeller!
| Handling Score Key: | |||||
(Best) 5 | Prop holds throughout the turns. | ||||
4 | Ventilate after apex of the turns. | ||||
(Acceptable) 3 | Ventilates at apex of the turns. | ||||
2 | Light ventilation throughout the turns. | ||||
1 | Excess ventilation through out the turns and after the turns. | ||||
| 0 | Blow out, can't turn at all. Need to back off the throttle. | ||||
| All trademarks are the property of their respective owners | |||||
Boat: | Bayliner 16' | |||
Motor: | Force® 70 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 10-1/8 x 15 | 40 | 5500 | 5 | |
Mercury® 10-1/8 x 15 | 30 | 5400 | 3 | |
| "Wow! It seems like a new boat! The old prop pushed the boat through the water like it was mud. I never could pull a skier. The new (Turning Point) prop pulled two skiers like nothing." B. Bessent. LaPine, OR | ||||
Boat: | Starcraft® 16 | |||
Motor: | Mercury® 60 EFI | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5500-6000 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 10-3/8 x 14 | 32.25 | 5175 | 5 | |
Mercury® 10-1/4 x 14 | 32 | 5250 | 5 | |
| "The hole shot seems much better than the factory prop. Holds well in turns and is easy to install. Appears very sturdy & well designed with bigger than factory blades. I would choose this prop over the factory prop. I will leave this prop on my boat and use the factory prop as a spare." L. Miller. Youngstown, OH | ||||
Boat: | Smokercraft® 17 | |||
Motor: | Johnson 115 2 stroke | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5252-5750 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 13-1/4 x 19 | 34.2 | n/a | 5 | |
Johnson® 14 x 19 | 29.3 | n/a | 3 | |
| "I was very impressed with the torque I felt with the Turning Point prop. The increase in power and smoothness was very noticeable. Easy installation. Great in turns, a lot better than the stock prop." R. Hanson. Amery, WI | ||||
Boat: | Tracker® 186 | |||
Motor: | Mercury® 115 4 stroke | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5000-6000 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 13-1/4 x 21 | 46 | 5900 | 5 | |
Merc Vengence® (ss) 13x16 | 45.5 | 5550 | 5 | |
| D. Reynolds. Auburn, NY | ||||
Boat: | Lund 182 | |||
Motor: | Yamaha 115 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5000-6000 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 13-1/4 x 17 | 47 | 5800 | 4 | |
Yamaha® 13 x 19 | 46 | 5950 | 3 | |
| P. LeBlanc. Newport, NH | ||||
Boat: | G3 | |||
Motor: | Yamaha® 90 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 4500-5500 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 13-1/4 x 17 | 33.5 | 5625 | 5 | |
Yamaha® 13-1/4 x 17 | 32 | 5525 | 5 | |
| "The holding with the Turning Point prop is awesome!" P. Bologna. Foster City, CA | ||||
Boat: | Searay® 17 | |||
Motor: | Mercruiser® 135 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 4400-4800 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 14-1/4 x 17 | 44 | 4300 | 4 | |
Mercury® 14 x 19 | 37 | 3500 | 3 | |
| "Having worked in the tool and dye industry for the past 25 years, I must say that this prop is one of the finest quality." M. Gelfond. Chicago, IL | ||||
Boat: | Lund® 185 | |||
Motor: | Honda 90 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5000-6000 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 13-1/4 x 17 aluminum | 29 | 4850 | 5 | |
Powertech® 12 x 17 stainless | 31.5 | 5200 | 5 | |
| "The Turning Point prop felt solid throughout the performance test. I'd say it compares favorably with my stainless steel prop. I did experience a bit of speed loss, however no speed loss with an additional passenger. I did get to plane faster with the test (Hustler) prop." A. Rognervo. Racine, WI | ||||
Boat: | Smokercraft 16 | |||
Motor: | Mercury 40 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 4500-5500 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 10-7/8 x 11 | 34.5 | 4650 | 5 | |
Michigan Wheel® 9 x 10 | 30 | 4800 | 5 | |
| J. Kampenga. Burbank, IL | ||||
Boat: | Alumnacraft® 163 | |||
Motor: | Mercury® 60 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5000-5500 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 10-3/8 x 14 | 56 | n/a | 5 | |
Mercury® 10-3/8 x 16 | 53 | n/a | 5 | |
| "Turning Point test prop: planed the boat quicker with a faster hole shot. This is a very good prop." D. Scheunemann. Marshfield, WI | ||||
Boat: | Lund 175 | |||
Motor: | Yamaha 115 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 5000-6000 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler® 13-1/4 x 19 | 43.5 | 5625 | 5 | |
Yamaha® 13 x 17 | 38.25 | 5900 | 2 | |
| "The boat feels like a bullet with the Turning Point prop. It's a higher, drier ride." J. Hedstrom. Bemidji, MN | ||||
Boat: | Sylvan 16 | |||
Motor: | Yamaha 55 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 4500-5500 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler 10-1/2 x 13 | 28 | 4900 | n/a | |
Cabelas stainless steel 10-1/2 x 13 | 28 | 4900 | n/a | |
| "The Turning Point prop put the boat on plane faster than my stainless steel prop. Top speed/rpm was identical, but I got there faster with the Turning Point prop! I definetely recommend this prop." N. Treida. Flower Mound, TX | ||||
Boat: | Lund Pro Sport 17 | |||
Motor: | Mercury 115 | |||
Engine WOT Range: | 4750-5250 | |||
| Propeller Brand | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | |
Hustler 13-1/4 x 19 | 45 | 5200 | 5 | |
Mercury 13-1/4 x 19 | 40 | 4800 | 5 | |
| I was extremely satisfied with the performance of the prop. My standard Merc prop will now become my backup prop. I have already told 3 boaters of these results, they were also impressed. I also made a third run with another person in the boat and the boat still ran 45 mph @ 5200 rpm's. D. Tomlinson. Austin, MN | ||||
Turning Point offers two three-blade Legacy models. These are best for runabout, fishing and bay boats. The 13-1/4" is designed for engines ranging from 40-150 hp with a 4-1/4" gearcase. The 14-1/4" is built for engines ranging from 135-300 hp with a 4-3/4" gearcase.
Legacy propellers feature the single-piece MasterTORQUE Hub System. Featuring a high-torque-resistant construction, it is intended to replace Mercury Flo Torq, Michigan Wheel XHS and similar hub systems. A shock-absorbing polymer cushion helps reduce vibration and prevents damage to the hub, prop and engine.
Don't trust any hub kit to "give" when you hit something.
Some top OEM engine manufacturers will claim that if you hit a solid object underwater, the hub will slip and protect your engine. That notion is common among boaters today. The fact is that they are wrong! Sure, sometimes when you hit something hard, you're hub will indeed slip. Your prop will be destroyed, and many times so will your gearcase/lower unit.
To confidently rely on your hub kit to protect your drive is not a good idea. Mercury shows a diagram on their box, illustrating the break point of their hub so that your drive will be protected upon impact. They boast this information to many of their customers. This is a down right lie by a major corporation. Does the Merc hub slip? Sure. Often times when you definetely do not want it to - gunning the throttle, hopping big waves, or just cruising around. It is my strong opinion that Mercury and other manufacturers claim their hubs are fail safe to cover themselves for such a high failure rate under normal conditions.
The holds true with the rubber hub. Rubber is indeed soft and has some give. But how can any hub be smart enough to stay intact under extreme torque conditions of hitting the throttle hard, pulling a skier, hopping a wave, but at the same time "slip" under impact. It is simply not true.
Here are the facts:
Most aluminum propellers will sacrifice themselves under impact, saving the lower unit. Stainless steel props are less forgiving, thus if you hit a solid enough object under water, it will very likely cause damage to your lower unit - regardless of which hub you have.
Still skeptical? Ask any marine service center how many repairs they have done as a result of the boater hitting an object underwater. I'm sure that number will be substantial. Another fact: almost all of those propellers had either a rubber hub or Mercury style hub or any other hub inside of them. What happened to the claimed protection for your lower unit?
Don't get me wrong, I'm sure that some boaters' hubs did actually slip on impact and possibly save their drive, but that is not the norm and you should never rely on that to happen for you.
The next time you buy a boat propeller, ask the seller or even the manufacturer about their hub.
Peter Sagartz
eBuyersWorld.com
Composite is not better than aluminum
There is a myth about composite propellers. After being a serious boater for over 15 years and haven run and tested hundreds of props on many different boats, I've learned a few things about props.
There is a myth about composite propellers: "Composite propellers run better that aluminum props and almost as good as stainless steel propellers." If you believe that one, I have some snake oil to sell you.
First I will start with the fact that different aluminum props from various manufacturers will have a major difference in overall performance between the best prop and the worst prop. On a good day a composite propeller will perform as well as the worst aluminum prop.
It is simply the fact that there has not been a composite propeller manufacturer that has designed a propeller that performs well. These composite props lack in rake, cupping, pitch progression and blade area. Many boaters claim that their composite prop runs better than their aluminum. However, most of these boaters replaced 3-blade aluminum prop with 4 blade composite. For some boat uses a 4 blade prop is better than a 3 blade. I'll get into that in another section. Some of these claim of better composite performance is because they were propped wrong with their aluminum and finally bought the right pitch in composite.
Many composite propellers use a gimic in their design. One manufacturer has removable blades, another has a variable pitch adjustment, and others try to sell their props the old fashioned way.
The real way to understand the composite performance myth is to put it to the test yourself. But do it right, compare apples to apples. Take the best known performing composite prop you know of and pin it against a leading aluminum prop. If you're looking at an aftermarket aluminum propeller, Turning Point Propellers' Hustler prop is the best. Or in the original equipment side of it, run a Mercury prop. They make them to fit all applications, just like Turning Point. Put it to the test and you'll understand what I'm talking about.
Check back soon as I'll comment on other areas on boat propellers.
Peter Sagartz
eBuyersWorld.com
Not all props are created equal. There is a huge difference between what an average propeller and a high performance prop can do to the overall performance of your boat. Turning Point's Hustler aluminum propellers provide the added performance that boater's crave.
Hustler High Performance Aluminum Boat Propellers
Mid-Range & High Performance Series
40 - 300 hp w/ 4-1/4" & 4-3/4" gearcases
They incorporate designs that boost a boat's overall performance. Not all boat propellers are created equal. In fact, Hustler Aluminum Propellers are the best performing props available. In some cases, this prop will outperform a stainless steel propeller!
Turning Point's Hustler High Performance Series aluminum propellers now feature the newly designed MasterGuard Hub System. Created specifically to give boats a higher top-end speed, better handling, a faster hole shot and more efficiency, Hustler propellers maximize overall performance. These props incorporate the same high performance designs found in stainless steel props to give boaters a less expensive way to gain stainless steel-like performance.
The High Performance Series is designed for all engines ranging from 40 hp to 300 hp with 4-1/4" to 4-3/4" gearcases. The interchangeable hub allows boaters to save money on future prop purchases, since spare or different pitched propellers don't require another hub purchase.
Turning Point recommends that every boat have a spare propeller onboard to insure a day on the water isn't ruined by a broken prop or to allow for adjustments in different situations. Using a prop 2" in pitch less makes a big difference when more people are onboard or the boat is being used for watersports. The smaller pitch helps offset the added weight and drag on the motor and increases performance under these circumstances.
Click here for more information on boat propellers
Click here to use our Prop Wizard to help you find the right prop.
Express High Performance Stainless Boat Propellers
High Performance Series
75 - 300 hp w/ 4-1/4" & 4-3/4" gearcases
Express props are the perfect prop for bass, walleye, family fishing, offshore boats, run-a-bouts, and weekenders. Express gives boats maximum speed and secure handling on tight turns at wide open throttle.
The Express stainless steel propeller from Turning Point Propellers provides all-around high performance for everyone from pro fishermen to weekend boaters. This stainless steel prop is ideal for just about any engine from 40 to 300+ hp with a 4-1/4" or 4-3/4" gearcase.
Delivering maximum speed and secure handling on tight turns at wide open throttle, the Express propeller is perfect for bass, walleye, family fishing, offshore and runabout boats. The unique blade design, available in 15", 17", 19", 21" or 23" pitches, allows for versatile use and gives boats a quicker hole shot, faster time to plane and greater lift.
At the heart of the Express prop housing is Turning Point's redesigned MasterGuard interchangeable hub system. Smaller and stronger, the hub utilizes a high-tech polymer material that efficiently absorbs damaging shift shock and engine vibrations. The small diameter allows optimal exhaust flow for better fuel efficiency and peak horsepower.
Do you use your boat for waterskiing, tubing, or putting extra people on board for a cruise around the lake or down the river? Purchase a 2 nd propeller at a lower pitch to help compensate for the added weight and drag. You will notice a big improvement in how your boat performs under those conditions. Don't forget you can carry a spare Hustler aluminum propeller that will adapt to the same hub.
| Boat: | Caravelle 18 | ||||
| Motor: | MerCruiser® 4.3L | ||||
| Engine WOT Range: | 4400-4800 | ||||
| Propeller | Top Speed | WOT RPM | Handling | ||
| Express® 19 pitch | 43.2 | 4600 | 5 | ||
| Power Tech® 19 pitch | 43.1 | 4600 | 5 | ||
| Mercury® Laser® 19 pitch | 42.7 | 4700 | 5 | ||
| Solas® 19 pitch | 43.0 | 4800 | 5 | ||
| Michigan Wheel® 19 pitch | 42.8 | 4800 | 5 | ||
| Handling Score | |||||
(Best) 5 | Prop holds throughout the turns. | ||||
4 | Ventilate after apex of the turns. | ||||
(Acceptable) 3 | Ventilates at apex of the turns. | ||||
2 | Light ventilation throughout the turns. | ||||
1 | Excess ventilation through out the turns and after the turns. | ||||
| 0 | Blow out, can't turn at all. Need to back off the throttle. | ||||