4-1-15 PM quick report

[J-Doc]

In theory, 4-blades are for getting on plane faster and for running the motor higher in the water. Since you're not raising the motor, there is no benefit to you and you're not looking for lightening fast hole shots on the salt flats or way up the White River by chance.

On this boat, a 4 blade can actually have slower hole shot and faster top end which is a bit backwards. But that is what I've been told by users on another forum.

Keep it simple.

Get you a 15 p aluminum and you should be setup fine. You're not concerned about squeezing out every ounce for a 70hp 4 stroke. Or at least I think you have a 70. Can't remember for sure.

[M_Taylor]

You are right J-Doc, it's a 70. I'm mostly concerned at finding the right rpm so that I'm confident I'm running fairly efficient without excessive wear on the engine. I think the 15 will be the ticket.

On a side note, the Ranger handled the windy chop beautifully for being aluminum and 17'8".

[J-Doc]

Yep. They will surprise you. Handles it much better than one would expect.

Worst I've been in was the main cut past the islands at Prairie Creek with 30-35mph winds. It was howling. I've only seen it that bad once before from a glass boat at 50-60mph. And my rig didn't care for it either. When you're concerned about taking on water and such.....it's too bad to be out there. Other than that, I can take on any normal windy day.

If you were running a 14 before, the 15 will fix you up. I agree. A healthy .Otis is best. Don't lug it down though. Max rpm range at wide open with you and a light load is perfect.

[eyeman]

Call gary at performance propeller in tulsa 1-918-251-4968 tell him what you have for boat and motor and get his opinion. He has been proping boats for 30 years

[M_Taylor]

Thanks. Great to know people who know much more than me.