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Prop Pitch Question

Posted By: buggsboy

Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 06:09 PM

I am running a 23 pitch prop on my 150 HP MERCURY EFI. I have always had a poor hole shot with this boat, and have been advised to try a 22 pitch prop for a better hole shot. Can a good prop man reduce the pitch on my prop from 23 P to 22 P? Thanks
Posted By: Pat Goff

Re: Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 06:42 PM

First answer is Yes, a good prop guy can make that adjustment.

BUT...you're going at it backwards.
Your priority is to be at max rpms at WFO. If your motor is rated at say 5,600 rpms, you NEED to be at 5,600 rpms full throttle, full trim.

When you're at that place, the holeshot issue typically goes away.

So, let us know the boat it's on, WHAT the prop is you're running, and WHAT it's doing full open.
Posted By: buggsboy

Re: Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 07:30 PM

My boat is a 2009 Nitro Z7 (18' 8"), Merc 150 EFI, Hydrodynamics 6" jack plate, p to p at 3.5", rpm at WOT 5500 +/- 100 RPM, Max mph (gps) 58-60. Prop is a Yamaha 23M.
Posted By: Jimfishes

Re: Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 08:29 PM

I'm surprised your holeshot has been bad because my 2013 Nitro Z7 came with a Mercury 150 Pro XS, 24" Tempest Plus prop and had a great holeshot! I currently run a 24" Fury on a 6" Bobs jack plate and it is quick out of hole. Might just be that particular prop?
Posted By: Pat Goff

Re: Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 08:31 PM

Ok, one aspirin at a time.
"Bad" holeshot is either A or B.
A: Lugs along for an unacceptable time before the bow falls and finally gets going.
B: Starts to go, then cavitates and falls down.

Which one?
Posted By: buggsboy

Re: Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 08:39 PM


A.
Posted By: Pat Goff

Re: Prop Pitch Question - 04/13/21 09:01 PM

That prop is a good choice, the M is really good on 2.5 mercs.
I would send it to Josh at Steves prop on fork, and let him drill it out for pvs plugs. You need to find the edge where it starts to cavitate, then bring it back a click.

Nitro has never been an impressive holeshot hull, but you do want to find as good as you can get.
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