intimidator prop help

[hotrodelrod]

Hey all, I know there are many variables to selecting a prop. My 93 Intimidator Merc. 200hp came with a 4 blade 25p prop but I have know idea what it is. Seems slow out of the hole to me and starts walkin badly at 65mph gps. Only about 5700 rpms at that point. It still has the stock Gambler jack plate(5.5 inches?) Can someone with a simular set up point me towards a good prop starting point? Thanks,
Rick in VA

[TheDuke]

What prop is it? Do you have Hyd. Steering?

I have same setup, it has some mild work to the motor now but before it had 26 Predator 4 blade and it was about the same hole shot as your having.

I now am running a 27 Tempest at 6000RPM at around 79mph.

If your looking for good hole shot and stable, I found the Trophy to be good, awesome bow lift too. Maybe around a 24 to 25 pitch.

A lot of guys swear by Mark Croxton props on here too, I haven't had a chance to try one yet myself but have heard nothing but great things about them.

[hotrodelrod]

Thanks for the advice guys. I will post a pic of the prop later today. Trashy, i understand your method completely as this is how I have been seeking maximum performance using gps/mph and trim. I was getting uncomfortable with the walk as it is my first "pad" boat though. Guess I need to man up and work my way through it. I will also measure my prop shaft/ pad height and report back later.
Thanks,
Rick

[96intimidator]

Trashy and Dell schooled me on driving my Intimidator. Take your time, it’ll come to you.

[hotrodelrod]

On the inner hub there is a 25p, and a stamped 41393
on the outer hub there is G1072 and D6752
Any thoughts on who's prop this is
Thanks,
Rick

[intimidator1991]

Kinda looks like my predator but dont hold me to that send pics to mark croxton he could probably tell you real fast.

[TheDuke]

Looks like my Predator as well. I have two of those, one has cracks all on the inside of the blades, think they are welded on blades.

Try a Tempest or Trophy

[hotrodelrod]

Well, I think I found part of the problem. I just measured the prop centerline (leveled) to what I think is the pad(lowest part on bottom of hull anyway) and there is a 7 inch difference! I marked the plate and went to loosen the lock bolts and both starboard side bolts were loose! Before you all pile on(lol) this ride is new to me and I was told that it is set up where it likes to be. Guess I shulda checked things over anyhow. Not sure if I have enough adjustment up to get to a 3.5 inch difference. We'll see. How would the ride characteristics be effected by such a low (7inch below pad) setup?
Thanks for the help,
Rick

[hotrodelrod]

These pics are after adjustment to 3.5-4 inches. Does this look right to you all?
Thanks,
Rick

[hotrodelrod]

Thanks Trashy (and others) for taking the time to give your input. This is an awesome site for Gboaters and bassboaters/fisherman in general with a wealth of knowledge for those in need. I hope to return the favor down the line!
Thanks again,
Rick Elrod

[TheDuke]

...........

[hotrodelrod]

So I took the boat out today with the prop height at about 4-4.5 inches. Wow! what a difference! Hit 67.5 gps at 6200rpms and 22lbs water. Best of all, it handled like a dream as compared to before. The current prop is a 25 predator (less than perfect condition) The way I see it, raise the motor some more and I should be able to spin a 26 wheel as suggested by Trashy. Also, boat was tx ready with 3 31 series batteries + cranking battery. (36 volt tm) What are your thoughts?
Thanks, Rick

[intimidator1991]

Sounds like it's coming along good I tried a 26 trophy on mine seemed like a really good prop good hole shot and handling and a good top end those 36 volt trolling motors are nice but that's alot of weight back there I love mine just not that extra weight but good luck with the set up and have fun