Lets talk props. Props on small motors.

[Headhunter]

Late last summer I bought a 1986 6hp Johnson short shaft (thanks for all the ifishers who help give advice on that one) and I have used it over the last duck season with much success. The prop (3blade) was not very pretty with some nicks/dings in it when I bought the motor and I have since added a few....hehe

Couple of questions. How do you know when it's time to get a new prop?

Second, what pitch should one get & how do you determine what pitch you need?

What about 2 blade vs 3 blade vs 4 blade and what is the best and why?

Finally since this is a duck boat and used in skinny water with lots of junk, weeds & grass should I get a two blade to cut down on stuff getting caught on the prop? If so, how will this affect the performance of the motor?

Thanks for all your help again!

Jim

[Headhunter]

Testing...testing...TEST....TEST...This thing on???? Can you hear me now??:wave: TEST....TEST.

[Boat Doc']

hello, hello, can you hear me? I would guess there is limited selection of props for that motor. I would get the lowest pitch available, with blades that are swept back which will assist in shedding weeds.

[ICHTHYDEMON]

hello, hello, can you hear me? I would guess there is limited selection of props for that motor. I would get the lowest pitch available, with blades that are swept back which will assist in shedding weeds.


Not much selection. I have a 1990 Evinrude 8hp and it only has two choices for props. A 7" and 9" pitched are the only choices.

[Headhunter]

Thanks for the help guys! Are there any resources you can point me to that gives an overall understanding on props? Just a big picture overview of the types, pitches and how that affects power, ride, and stuff I just don't understand at this point. Classic...you don't know what you don't know....and I wanna know...lol

[Chrome Bumper]

Search the internet... http://www.solarnavigator.net/propellers.htm


pitch is like gearing in a car, low gear for weak engine and heavy load. You don't really know if you need a new prop until you buy one and it works better. Is there weird vibration? does the hub slip?

A brand new prop will set you back about 50 bucks. The prop you have should be marked with the diameter and pitch. This is a good place to start. If it feels geared to high or low go to the next size.

If you take your prop to a shop, (independent, ampro , scheffeild) they can look at it and tune it up if it needs it.

[Headhunter]

Chrome,

Thanks a bunch! Good info and a good start. Thanks!

Jim