Originally Posted by
leo13
The main problem you have is the 5600 max rpm. Something is wrong. Either your not trimming up all the way, not high enough on the plate, prop damage or an engine issue. The gauge for the jack plate may not equal the actual ptp measurement. 2 3/4 on the gauge is not the same as 2 3/4" ptp. Also a new prop or repaired prop does not equal a good prop. Again trim first and then raise the plate until you reach 6krpm.
The best 3 blade is a 26 tempest. An all around prop that does nothing great nor bad is the 25 fury. Right now I'm testing a 27 bravo which is my heavy load rough water prop. The newer triton hulls do not work well with a ptp less then 2.25" and 2.75" is the best. Although the set back does affect the ptp. The further back the higher the outboard can be. It does not really affect the drag because the water rises higher further back so the same amount of prop and lower unit are in the water. Eg. With an 8" plate the ideal ptp might be 2.75-3" and with a 12 plate the equivalent ptp might be 2.25-2.5".
When the ptp is too small, (outboard is too high) it reduces the leverage or moment that the outboard imparts on the hull which reduces the bow lift. This is why for these hulls it is recommended not to go above 2.5" ptp and not larger then a 10" jack plate.
For tournament bass competition the requirement is more then just top speed. Tournament morning load/performance is paramount. I have set my 21xhp to run 76-77 with good rough water handling and still be able to carry a full load in the afternoon. Morning load is two people gear and 30-40gals of fuel. Afternoon is the same with both wells full.
The props that I have tested are below. I currently own 2 x 26 tempests that have been b&b'ed by Croxton and a 27 Bravo. All were purchased new and IMO the stock 26 temp migh be 1-2mph faster then the b&b'ed but the b&b'ed units are better all around, handling, holeshot etc.
25, 26, 27 Tempest
25,26 Fury
26, Tropy
27 Bravo 1 xs