Prop Question?

[fishingguy]

I have gotten back into open water fishing after a few years off. Bought a late 80's alumacraft competitor with an evinrude 70hp on it. It came with 2 props. A SS prop is currently on the motor, and the stock aluminum prop. My question is, what are the benefits of the SS prop? It runs around 32mph with this prop, but only trolls down to 3mph to 3.5mph. Will the stock alum prop give me less top end speed? How much? Will it troll down a little more?

Any thoughts?

[marine_man]

The benefits of a stainless steel prop is that it's got more cupping, giving you better hole shot and better top end speed than aluminum. Plus, it's shiny !

As far as speed goes, you'd have to see what pitch props you have... if there's a difference between the two it will make a difference. Any idea what you're turning for rpm's?

marine_man

[boatfixer]

Down side to Stainless is you run the risk of more internal damage and a bent prop shaft if you were to hit bottom or a rock, etc... This is not to say no damage will occur with an aluminum prop, just understand there is more forgivness with aluminum. Stainless will cost more to repair or replace. However, with proper pitch selection, stainless will generally give you better all around performance.

[fishingguy]

Any idea what you're turning for rpm's?

marine_man