How to Choose a Propeller for a Boat

new propeller can help you tweak the performance of your boat to suit your
preferences. The two main measurements of a boat propeller are diameter and pitch.
You can increase or decrease both the diameter and the pitch of your boat’s prop to
change how it performs. The type of material it’s made out of and the number of
blades your propeller has are also things to consider when you’re shopping for a new
propeller. Remember that you can always consult the staff at a marine dealership to
help you choose the right prop for your boat. They’ll usually even let you test out a
few different props before you commit to buying!

Tip: The staff at a marine supply dealership can help you choose a new prop for your
boat. Come prepared with specs about your boat, such as the type of engine,
horsepower, weight, hull style, and current type of propeller it has.[2]

2
Decrease propeller diameter for more acceleration. Propellers with smaller
diameters rotate faster, thus creating more acceleration. Choose a propeller with a
lesser diameter if you have a small boat that you want to get up to fast speeds.[3]
 For example, sports cruisers can benefit from propellers with smaller
diameters.
3
Raise the pitch for higher top speeds. Pick a propeller with a higher pitch to
increase the top speed of your boat. Keep in mind that a higher pitch will also
decrease your boat’s acceleration.[4]
 The pitch is the distance the propeller will theoretically move your boat
with 1 full revolution of the shaft.
 For example, a 21-pitch prop will theoretically move your boat 21 in
(53 cm) with 1 complete rotation of the propeller.
 Pitch is theoretical because you have to be operating your boat in optimal
conditions for the pitch to be 100% accurate. For example, water
conditions, wind, and a boat’s weight and design can cause a prop to “slip,”
which lowers the pitch.
 Heavy commercial boats usually rely on propellers with higher pitches.

4
Lower the pitch for better acceleration. Propellers with lower pitches have higher
RPMs, thus resulting in greater acceleration for your boat. Opt for a new propeller
with a lower pitch if your goal is increasing the acceleration.[5]
 Keep in mind that a lower pitch will also decrease the top speed of your
boat.
 A rule of thumb is that, for every 1 in (2.5 cm) less in the pitch, the
propeller will spin about 200 RPMs faster.
 Light recreational boats typically use propellers with lower pitches.

How to Choose the Correct Pitch and Blade

Count
Before you dive into choosing a propeller, understand your boat’s intended
use. Consider your average speed, load, and boating location. If you will be
using the boat for multiple applications, you may need to switch props. The
propeller choice directly affects the engine RPM and therefore its
performance. Choose a propeller that puts the engine RPM at the midpoint or
higher of the wide open throttle (WOT) range with a normal load. This
operating range will translate to the highest horsepower available from your
outboard. Refer to your engine operating manual for the operating range.

Once you know the operating range, consult the propeller guide for your
engine to pick a combination of pitch, blade number, and material. Choose a
range of propellers to perform a water test. Test the props under the same
conditions that you would typically use the boat—same load, gear, and water.
Set the trim angle so the boat has optimum speed on top of the water.

To test the prop, run the boat at WOT and observe the maximum engine RPM
on a tachometer. If the RPM is below the recommended operating range,
switch to a propeller with lower pitched blades. If the RPM is higher, switch to
a propeller with higher pitched blades. Each inch of pitch size will change the
RPM by 150-200 RPM. Aim for the midpoint or higher of the recommended
operating range. Keep in mind that high altitudes will reduce engine power, so
choose a lower pitch to achieve the same RPM as on sea level.

Engine height also affects the performance of the propeller. Once you find the
right prop, adjust the engine mounting height to create the best balance
between speed, maneuverability, and acceleration. Start with the anti-
ventilation plate even with the bottom of the boat. Raise the engine one
mounting hole at a time until performance is unacceptable, and then lower the
engine one hole down.

Keep a spare prop onboard for emergency situations. One recommendation is

to buy a spare propeller that is two inches lower in pitch than your standard
propeller. This reduction in pitch is perfect for tow sports, such as water
skiing, due to a slower acceleration and higher power.

Glossary
Back-the low pressure side of the blade closest to the boat
Cavitation- vaporized air caused by water flow disturbances
Cup (blade)- the lip on the edge of the blade
Diameter- width of the circle made by the tips of the blades
Face (blade)- the high pressure side of the blade farthest from the boat
Leading Edge (blade)- the blade edge closest to the boat
Pitch- distance travelled by the propeller in one revolution
Rake- angle between the blade and the hub
Root (blade)- the edge of the blade attached to the hub
RPM- revolutions per minute
Slip- distance lost due to inefficiency
Surface Area-the total surface of the blades
Tip- the point separating the leading edge and trailing edge farthest from the
hub
Trailing Edge (blade)- the blade edge farthest from the boat
Ventilation- air bubbles surrounding the blades
WOT- wide open throttle