Another dreaded prop question

[Bad Chicken]

I'm posting again in this section because of the activity. I have a 2001 16 V series with a 4 stroke Yamaha motor. I want to change the prop to a 12" 9 pitch prop. I know I will sacrifice top end speed for faster planing. Yahama shows this prop as the largest in their factory specs but do you think it will cause more strain on the motor. Will it effect my motor life? Is it a matter of compromise? Can someone here give me an idea of the performance without actually changing it and putting it in the water? Thanks in advance and please let me know if i need to give more info. Is there a list of members who own what models? How many V series owners are there in this forum? I am exhausted from asking questions ;0). Standing by for replies. BC

[Shakespeare]

Is there a list of members who own what models?

There is the boat motor/prop database thread; http://carolinaskiffowner.com/index.php?topic=793.0 but we sure could use a lot more data from you guys to make it useful. Bad Chicken, your inquiry is a perfect example of how it could help.

Mike C.

[bobreeves]

I'd be real careful about over-revving the engine with just a 9 pitch - especially with just one person on board. You do have a tach, right?

[Bad Chicken]

Yes, I have a tach. I'm a big guy 300lbs. My boat has a short rear deck with livewell, large front deck, center console, pedistal seats (center and front), 2 6 gal gas tanks, and 1 batt in the rear. The front has a trolling motor and battery (plus safety and fishing gear). I also have a Dol-phin on the motor. I will usually be with 1-2 other people fishing. Will this prop be better for trolling? The motor has a rev limiter right?? How do I know what the correct max RPM is at WOT? I usually run just under WOT. Thanks! BC

[bobreeves]

WOT should be between 5000-6000 rpm for a 2001 4-stroke (that's what I run), and you're generally best to aim for the high end of the rpm range. I wouldn't rely on just the rev limiter - I've seen mine go over when I was experimenting with props. I prefer Smart Tabs over the Doel-Fin, others prefer neither. You can read about this elsewhere.

[Bad Chicken]

Thanks Bob, I just looked at the specs for my motor and it's the same as my 60hp 4 stroke on my pontoon boat. It runs 5500 RPM WOT. Am I correct in understanding it's OK to run all the way up to but not exceeding 6000 RPM on WOT? I think the Dol-phin definately helps to get on plan faster but I'm wondering how it will react with the different prop. This prop is listed by Yamaha as an option for my motor. I realize that there are many other variables. I also hope to get better low speed handling and turning control. This boat will be used primarily for flats-shallow water fishing and trolling. It sounds like I will just need to put it on and see how it performs. Thanks. BC

[bobreeves]

Correct - you shouldn't exceed 6000 rpm. The Doel-Fin also got me on plane faster, but reduced WOT rpm and top speed - that is why I switched to the Smart Tabs, but then you've got to fill the holes in your anti-ventilation plate on the motor, paint it, and drill additional holes in the transom for the Smart Tabs.

That's a large diameter prop you're putting on - just make sure it clears the Fin.

I rarely run mine wide open either - only to check props and load distribution. Both the Fin and Smart Tabs will get you on plane faster and keep you there at lower rpm. I spend most of my 'cruising time' between 3500 and 4000 rpm.