I have a 375 Ranger and currently run a 23P Tempest Plus. I used to run a 23P Laser. Both props are stock. I believe that the Tempest has more cup and therefore runs lower RPMs. It also seems to want to run higher on the jackplate. I need to re-balance the Laser, otherwise I would just swap and verify by thinking. Does anyone know how the 2 compare?

I'd be curious about the same thing. I have a 20P Laser II for my 115 Merc and 17' Ranger fish 'n ski. I was already running slightly on the high side rpm-wise (i.e. 5500 in the winter with a full load and just me). The Laser II does not come in a 21P, only a 22P. I've raised my motor one bolt hole, and the performance has improved noticeably. I now get 5600 rpms in the heat of the summer and about a mile an hour faster than I was in the winter. My optimum height may be one more hole higher as my anti-ventilation plate is still submerged when trimmed out, but I'm content right now. I'm worried the 22P may be too much although I have a lightening quick hole shot now. I was wondering if the Trophy Plus in 21P would be the way to go, and what would the performance difference be.

Laser is just about the sorriest bass boat prop ever made.

If that isn't clear enough, let me know.

C'mon Pat--tell us how you really feel!!!!

Pat,
Seriously, no kidding? I honestly didn't know that. I always thought it was considered a great prop for smaller boats and motors. For more info, here's what I have: A Ranger R77 with a Merc 115, both '95 year models. I get 46.5 mph at 5600 rpms with the 20P Laser II. It seems slightly slow, although I do have a decent amount of gear in it. The hull and lower unit are in excellent shape as is the prop. Do you think the appropriate Trophy Plus is a benefit in my case? Will it gain any speed? I know the handling will be better with the four blade, so that's a given. Thanks in advance.

Lazers typical mode is, runs great light, get the boat ready to fish, and it will fall on it's face.

Trophy, TRO4 powertech, rehubbed raker will all seriously out perform that Lazer.

My question is still unanswered. I am not concerned with performance only WOT RPMs. Immediately after installing the Tempest I blew my motor. I am now running a couple hundred RPMs less than before the rebuild. I am contributing this difference to the prop but I am unsure. The Laser seems to have less cup and therefore should run higher RPMs. I could spend $90 and re-work the Laser but, I am not sure I want to do that.

I too have tried props out on my 1995 Ranger R77-Sport, 17 foot fish/ski boat with Mercury 115HP. I tried the Lazer II @ 23 pitch...It lifts the bow up better than any other prop, but at 5100rpms I run 45mph...I got a Pro-Tec 23 pitch and now I run 48mph, with two adults with full gear and gas tank (24gallons)

Ranger recommended the Lazer II-23pitch, but I like the pro-tech prop better..IMO...

I thought that the maximum on the Mercury 115HP motor was only 5250rpms??

You might want to post the same question on this Ranger boat forum...

http://bbcboards.zeroforum.com/zeroforum?id=42

Bass Hog,
Here is the specifications on my 1995 Mercury 115HP, 2-stroke motor...So, I do not know how you get more than 5250 rpms???????

Max RPM (W.O.T.): 4750-5250

Mercury 115-hp
Outboard Specifications

Propshaft Horsepower: 115-hp (86 kW)

Max RPM (W.O.T.): 4750-5250

Cylinders/Configuration: 4 (in-line)

Displacement: 113 cu.in. (1848cc)

Bore & Stroke: 3.5 in. x 2.93 in. (89mm x 75mm)

Fuel Induction System: Loop Charged

Exhaust System: Through Prop

Lubrication System: Single point variable ratio oil injection

Cooling System: Water cooled with thermostat and pressure controlled

Ignition System: Modular CDI

Starting System: Electric

Alternator: 18 amp with voltage regulator

Gear Ratio: 2.07:1

Gear Shift: F-N-R

Steering: Remote

Trim System: Power Trim

Shaft Length: 20 in. (508mm)

Weight-Dry: 347 lbs. (158 kg)

Operator Warning Systems: Overheat, low oil leve

Mercury Selection Guide for Props...

http://www.mercurymarine.com/prop_selector

Ranger R,
You're right, 5250 rpm max. I don't stay that high (5600) for very long, just long enough to verify top end. I can sense deflection at that rpm and reduced horsepower. That is by myself with full gear and fuel. How does the 23 pitch get out of the hole for you, and what are your rpms at 48 mph? Mine blasts out, so I don't know if I should be worried or not by going to a larger pitch. Also, which hole is your motor on the boat. Mine was from the second to the bottom. I moved it up one, so now it is in the middle hole. It performs a lot better, but I'm wondering if I should go to the second from the top, since my anti-ventilation plate is still just barely submerged. Also, have you tried a Trophy on your setup? If so, how did it perform? It's nice to talk to someone else with the same set up as mine, since they are kind of rare.