3 Blade vs 4 blade props

[Hooter]

It is my understanding that 4 blade props give a better hole shot than 3 blades. (Please correct me if Im wrong.) My question is this–If I had a 3 blade prop that allowed me to run 6000 rpm at wot, how would the pitch vary to get the same wot rpm with a 4 blade prop. Thanks for any enlightenment anyone can give.

[Scott Dominick]

Someone will correct me if I am wrong…….as I may be (usually)! Go down one pitch from the three blade; when running the four blade, and adjust motor height!

[PhilAddison]

Thats a little bit of a loaded question there Hooter! I wouldnt say that a 4 blade gives a better hole shot than a 3. Usually a 3 will give the better hole shot. If running a Mercury, theres no prop better than a Fury for hole shot. A lot to do with holeshot has to do with prop pitch as well. 4 blades generally hold the hull better particularly when talking about heavy boats and Bass Cat is what I would say is a “heavy hulled” boat. The only way to get what you want is to try out the different types of props (Fury, Trophy, Tempest) and determine what meets your needs. Im not sure what boat youre running or engine and having that information would be helpful in helping you figure out what you need. And Scott is correct. If youre running a 26p Tempest a 25 Trophy would generally what I would suggest. Though there are differences in all props whether they are the same model and size or not!

[Hooter]

Thanks for the replies, Scott and Phil. I have a 2002 Sabre, and I am re-powering. I was running a 1997 2 stroke Suzuki. The motor was very strong. (2.7 liter, EFI) The motor would spin a 14 1/4 X 26 Suzuki prop (3 Blades) at 6000 RPM. The rig had an excellent hole shot, and a top speed of 65 mph GPS. I had a close encounter of the worst kind with a submerged log a couple of weeks ago. The motor isnt worth fixing. NADA value of about $1600.00. I am re-powering with a 150 4 stroke Yamaha. I will start with a 23″ Yamaha Pro V, as per Ivans suggestion. I would be willing to give up a little on top in order to maintain a good hole shot. I cant out run anybody any way with any 150. So, sitting here with too much time on my hands, I was wondering about which way to go if the 23″ Pro V doesnt get the job done.

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