Prop Choices

[Charger 1982]

I am wondering what kind of four blade trophy prop would work best on a 1982 Charger with a 1980 200Hp Merc with a 2:1 gear ratio, I am currently running a modified three blade cleaver that only manages to get about 65Mph. I am looking to get into the mid to high 70's. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
[This message has been edited by Charger 1982 (edited March 08, 2002).]

[HavasuDreamin']

I am assuming this is a vee bottom???? If it is a vee, you need a chopper, not a cleaver. What pitch prop are you currently running and at what RPM's. If you are near the top of your RPM band, perhaps a chopper in the same pitch as your cleaver. I like Mazco. Good prop for good price. Stick with the three blade for top end.

[Charger 1982]

Yes it is a Vee bottom, the cleaver has a 23 inch pitch and I run about 5700 RPM at top end but my motors max RPM is about 6000 I believe. I was previously running a chopper prop prior to buying this one and I was getting about 75Mph out of it, but I switched to the cleaver for water skiing. I am looking to hit high speeds now but I would still like to be able to pull skiers.
[This message has been edited by Charger 1982 (edited March 10, 2002).]
[This message has been edited by Charger 1982 (edited March 10, 2002).]

[snappertapper]

that is only the manufactures recomended max rpm you can usually go about 1000 over that i do anyway you will will know when your limit is

[HavasuDreamin']

Snapper is right, although I probably wouldn't run it 1,000 rpm's past the manufacturer's suggested rpm. I would try a 22" three blade chopper. My guess is you will see 70+ at better than 6,000 rpm. With a 22 you will see better hole shot than the 23 and be able to get a skier up out of the water better. Good luck! http://free.***boat.net/ubb/cool.gif
[This message has been edited by HavasuDreamin' (edited March 13, 2002).]

[mercjerc]

I don't know about that...a 22" wheel at 6000 and 2:1 gears only figures to maybe 60 mph.... Do you have low water pickups??? I would think without them you wouldn't be able to run the chopper/cleaver high enough to see its benefit...

[cavey lavey]

HEY I HAVE A 23 CHOPPER AND A MAZCO 24 RE FORE SALE IF YOUR INTERESTED, AROUND 300 SAMOLIES, CHECK MY POST, C YA.

[HavasuBarney]

Both of lavey's props would be a good choice.
Cleavers are for stern lift, a vee bottom needs bow lift, think chopper.