3-blade to 4-blade help

[coreynov902]

I have a 2000 Ranger R83VS with a Mercury 175 EFI that I bought last year. The boat's in storage right now, but I believe that it currently has a 25 pitch Tempest 3-blade prop (not sure of diameter). It seems to do a great job for me, but because I'm also using the boat to pull my kids on a tube and my wife on skiis, I'm contemplating switching to a 4-blade prop. Also, I don't tournament fish so top speed is not a concern of mine. Can anyone give me some advice based on my current setup as to what prop(s) I should look at getting? I'm completely new to prop selection, so feel free to dumb down your answers for me.

[magnumb]

Not sure of the weight and performance capability of your boat, but mine is a lot more enjoyable to drive with a 4 blade vs 3 and I think I only lost 2mph. If you have to cash to try one out I would say do it...might really liven up your rig and help snap the necks on your next tuber victim:)

[Marinadan]

Some dealers will let you test a prop before you buy it as long as you don't
damage it. Try a 24 pitch Merc Trophy 4-blade.

[utinator]

I would start with a 23 Trophy or 23 High-Five for pulling tubes.