I just recently got a new to me boat. It has a merc 125 saltwater series engine with a 13.25 x 17 3blade prop. if i want more speed, could i go to a 4 blade prop? would i keep the same pitch (the rps are perfect with the 17)? if i dont keep the same pitch, how do i know what pitch i should get. thanks in advance for your replys.
25’ Mako CC
Twin 150 HPDI’s
Chasin’ Tail
For Sale
4 blade props are usually slower than 3 blade props. If you want more speed then your just going to have to demo some different 3 blade 17P props. Mercury Mirage Plus is an excellent all around prop with very good speed. The baseline Vengence props are also good all around. Laser II props are fast, but work best on lighter boats due to less blade area.
Personally I wouldn’t chose a prop on top end speed since you’ll rarely run it there. Look for holeshot, control, and a good cruise speed then top speed.
Iain Pelto
Edgewater 185CC “Jumpin’ Bean II”
Native Manta Ray 14
Might try raising your motor up one bolt hole and keep the same prop will gain a few mph but not much. Changing a prop is not going to provide a miracle on top end speed. You might gain 3-5 mph by changing props. Is the cost of a new prop really worth 3-5 mph faster??
Rog
“Double Trouble”
2001 Sea Fox 230
2001 Merc 200