Question for the group... I am plaining on buying a new prop. as I mentioned in a earlier post I was having problems getting out of the hole. (Someone has to lean to the front of the boat in order to get out). I have found out I have a prop with a pitch of 21 and max RPMs of around 5600 at about 50 MPH. (manufactored suggested 5000-6000) (Yamaha 2001 115 HP) To get to the point. I have been doing some research and they recommend 4 blade props for bass boats, yet I never see any on them? does anyone have any info on this. I guess my main problem is that the local Yamaha dealer in La Crosse WI will not allow me to return the prop if it does not work effectivly on my boat... so trial and error is out of the question at $425 a prop. (Unless someone knows a better place to buy from?) Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks
John

I would suggest finding a dealer with a variety of used props and ask if they would allow you to experiment. If not, keep looking, there are some out there who will help you (the one you have doesn't sound too helpful). If they want to make the sale, they should help you find what you are looking for...a positive experience might bring you back for a bigger sale down the road.

John
If I were you I would call around to local and regional boat dealer asking for help. Explain your problem and I'm sure that you will find someone who is willing to help. If not ask the boat dealer where they send out there damage prop to get rebuilt. I'm sure the prop repair shop has some prop for you to try. If that doesn't work send me email. I'll call Yamaha for you and find some in your neck of the woods who will help.

Lovefishn,
You may have to go to a 23 pitch four blade. First, be sure your motor is mounted correctly if it's too high up on the transom you won't get out of the hole as well. You may also need to check your weight ditribution. We all tend to put everything in the rear storage compartments, coupled with the gas tank and batteries, your boat may just be too rear heavy. Try putting everything you can up front to hold the nose down and be sure you are completly trimmed all the way down when taking off. As a last resort, you may need to add a fin foil to the outboard, you know, those planer type plasic things that get the baot to rise quickly. They are a little unsightly, but do the job. We run a lot of four blade props here in the Mississippi for obvious reasons, we often blast off in two feet of water, and have to plane out quickly, the extra balde helps add lift. Good luck and sorry about your difficulties with your dealer, I bet Yamaha would like to know about him. They are a good company and don't want dissatisfied customers. LOL, Johnnie

Johnnie is exactly right! Boat set-up is not accidental, it take alot of research. I do know that you need to increase RPM's, if your prop can not achieve this change it. I do this to talking with prop shops, boat dealers, & engine shops. I have had best luck with a small prop here, who just happened to race my engine. Good luck!

Lovefishn,

Although I do not personally own a boat I am good friends with someone that is in the boating industry. If you want to find a shop that will allow you to try different props, try looking for a service center that is located within a marina.

I know that the one that my friend owns will install the prop for you and then have the mechanic go on a test run for you so they can feel it out themselves and make recommendations if needed. They will try out props until they find the one that works best for you. That is the advantage of having a location on the water.

Now, you'll probably pay a premium for the prop, but, think of the extra money as paying for having the peace of mind knowing that you have the right prop and the another one would not be better.

I can always count on this board to give great advise. I appreicate everyone that takes the time to help out. I have learned more on this board then any other site. Plus it is great to be able to post a questions and come back the next morning and have 5 answers. So thanks again, and I will start calling around :-)
John