I don't have a hydrodyne, it seems like you guys know your props. I've got both a 13-7/8x17 Viper and a 13-1/2x18 Raker II and I don't love either prop. The Viper has great holeshot but it rough riding. The Raker II is smooth and fast but worthless for pulling. I don't do a ton of pulling, and never more than one skiier. I do tow around tubes though. My problem with both these props is that They are terrible at low speeds, and since I'm towing lost of beginners that's where I need to be. I'd like something that will get me planning at low speed and that will keep a speed. The Viper is bow to the sky until about 20mph. The raker comes up more even, but once it gets turning it's gains speed until 25mph unless I back off the throttle and then I lose plane. I think I'd like to get away from the high tech props and all the cupping and raking and just go back to something basic. Is there a basic stainless steel prop that will give me good lift and control? I think since I'm running only a 115 I should look at something in a 13" diameter with like a 17-19 pitch. Any Sugestions? Thanks, Tom
Hi Tom, Welcome to Hydrodyners. Both of the props you mentioned have a lot of rake which is meant to lift the bow, which at low speeds means the stern will dig down like you mentioned. You did not mention the type of boat you have, but it sounds like it might be a v-bottom. I would be tempted to try a plain Evinrude aluminum prop in the 17 pitch. The aluminum props usually have a little trailing edge cup and no tip cup which is perfect for your application. If the pitch is not right you can have an aluminum prop changed by 2 inches either way. If that works then I would try to find a stainless round eared prop that is similar to their aluminum if you think you need stainless. I think they sell one and it is probably the bottom of the line stainless. Your motor has a rev limiter so it will not over rev. You should trim all the way in. If the bow is still too high, I would recommend that you install a wedge. There is a whole thread on this forum dedicated to the discussion of wedges, complete with pictures and sources. Good luck, jim
There is a video of my boat pulling a skier in the video section. It shows a beach start with little or no bow rise. The motor is a 150 Johnson v-6 with a 11 year old aluminum prop with all the cup removed. The pitch is 17. The prop has never been back to a prop shop although it has a few nicks in it. It still performs well for my application. The boat also has a wedge. The boat comes on plane at 10 or less. If you want to read about prop theory, Mercury Marine has a page on their site with an excellant discussion of props. edit: I forgot to mention that raising the motor up on the transom will help too. Just watch your water pressure. jim
The old OMC SST props (not so much the newer SST II's) are a good basic stainless steel prop. Less bow lift than most stainless props. If you can find one in a size you want (used, since I don't believe they make the old ones any more), I believe you will be happy with it.
