01 Sunsetter LXI Prop

[MrB]

I have a OJ 13x14 4 Blade prop that has a ding on one blade. My buddy loaned me a spare prop exactly the same as mine but has been reworked once but appears to be perfect. I switched props and when I went through the course I was running approx 2 MPH faster ( I didn't look at the RPM's). I put my prop back on because I didn't want to change my base lines on PP. Should I buy this prop? My other buddy loaned me his OJ 13x13 4 blade. Should I try it? What difference should I expect?

[Malibudude]

Once you prop down you'll get better hole shot, better consistency (speed) throughout the course then only drawbacks are you typically loose 1-2mph on the top end and burn a bit more fuel. I ran a 13x11.5 on my old SLXI but unless you are above say 2k in elevation, which doesn't seem like you do, you'll be fine w/ a 13x13 or a 13x12. I would recommend the CNC'd 3 blade props over the older 4 blades. Eric Johnson at OJ is superb about answering questions as well.

[MrB]

Once you prop down you'll get better hole shot, better consistency (speed) throughout the course then only drawbacks are you typically loose 1-2mph on the top end and burn a bit more fuel. I ran a 13x11.5 on my old SLXI but unless you are above say 2k in elevation, which doesn't seem like you do, you'll be fine w/ a 13x13 or a 13x12. I would recommend the CNC'd 3 blade props over the older 4 blades. Eric Johnson at OJ is superb about answering questions as well.

[MrB]

Is propping down the 13x13?

[WakeGirl]

Probably, yes. The first number is diameter, the second is pitch, the third would normally be cup (which isn't present in your information). Normally dropping pitch or "propping down" will give you better hole-shot, usually at the cost of top end. Without knowing what the cup specs are on any of those props, it's impossible to be sure on any of that though, since the amount of cup has a big effect on both hole-shot & top end. But there's no harm in trying it. Really, it will (& should) come down to which one you like best.

If you can afford to go with any of the new Acme cnc 3-blades, it would be a great solution. It would give you the hole shot & holding ability of a 4 blade with the top end of a 3 blade, & a smoothness that a cast prop is generally not capable of producing.

[MrB]

The pitch is not stamped on the prop. I am happy with my 13x14 but since it has been re-worked 5 times, I was told that it is not a good idea to do it again. How can I find out the pitch of the other props?

[WakeGirl]

The pitch is not stamped on the prop. I am happy with my 13x14 but since it has been re-worked 5 times, I was told that it is not a good idea to do it again. How can I find out the pitch of the other props?

Most often there will be a model or the size (e.g., 13x14) or both stamped on the hub. I seem to recall having an older OJ 4 blade at one time that didn't have any info on it at all though, so YMMV. A good prop guy may be able to measure it out & tell you what you've got.

[MrB]

Thanks, I'll fool around and try both the props or maybe I'll just get mine re-worked.