New Prop Pitch Helps

[Lon Weekly]

I've got a 2003 PT 185 with a 60 hp EFI 4-stroke. I've been getting an RPM alarm at WOT (5900-6000 rpm). The motor label says 6000 max. Also only getting 29-30 mph according to GPS. My theory was that the prop just wasn't right.



Dealer checked everything and noted that engine had exceeded max rpm 12 times. Tracker says proper prop is 10 1/2" 13 pitch. We decided to try 10 1/2" 14 pitch.



Result is better hole shot, no alarms and top speed of 34.9 on GPS. Not a breakneck speed, but every little bit helps.



BTW, our club has 13 Rangers, 3 Tritons, 2 Stratos and me. I'm in 6th place after 7 events in my rookie season of tournament fishing. So my little "tin can" as one of the old Ranger dudes calls it, keeps up pretty well.

 

[TOMMY RICH]

That's probably right Lon.. I had a 94 Pro Team 18 w/60 Merc and it run about 35 but, that was the old hull design and was a lot flatter in the back and at the bow...good boat...it would just beat you to death in 2 ft. chop. That's why I went with the new one.

Lon..this info may help you from gettin' wet;

Try to hit the waves dead on...if you cut at a wave diagonally..you can still get a little wet.

If it's rough...I'll go a little out of the way to stay dry.

TEE

 

[Dave Muniz]

Lon,



What rpm are you turning since you installed the new prop?

Just curious.



Dave

 

[Lon Weekly]

I'm now getting top speed at 5800-5850 rpm.

 

[TOMMY RICH]

I think that's as good as it gets!

TEE