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BWB Prop Article

Ray Zuelke

Ray Zuelke

Member
Just read "War of Wheels". Test 21 different props on Bullet Bass boat, 20 ft., Merc 250 xs, 1950 lbs. ready to run. Pad boat. Very interesting article @bwbmag.com.

I noticed these guys getting 85 mph ++ gps. Typically getting best results with 28p - to - 30p props.

I don't see similar results from any Mate tests. What's the difference?
 
300 pounds! Bullet boats are light and low and built for speed. They are the fastest breed of bass boats and have very light bows. They do not need much setback at all. All Mates are bow heavy and will never keep up with a Bullet. But then a Bullet only seats 2. So it is a perfect boat for a Bubba with likely no wife and only one friend.
 
Don't want a bubba boat. Not me. What I am trying to decide on is which prop to invest in for my Checkmate. Small hub Trophy for sure, but which pitch? I "demoed" a 27p and it ran very good. However, the BWB article gave me the idea to go for a 28p.

Your'e info on the differnce on boats helps alot. However, do you think I would get gains with a 28 over a 27, the way they did in the BWB tests???
 
What can your 250 spin now? (eg. Prop and RPM) My take is that a Mate runs the best when it is propped to turn max rpm's. I have found I can gain maybe 1-2 MPH by turning a bigger wheel at a lower RPM but I end up losing holeshot. Both my Mates are propped to turn 6100 RPM. In fact on my Diplomat I dropped from a 21 to a 19...lost 1 MPH on the top, but it launches out of the hole. You cannot tell the difference of one MPH by the seat of your pants, but holeshot and mid range excelleration you can.
 
Turn 27p 5900 rpm (tempest or trophy) - 250 pro xs o.k. to 6,000 - rev. lim @ 6,200. Thought about a 28p, send to Merc. prop shop for labbing, get 6,000 hopefully. Pro xs seems like a really strong engine. Felt 28 MIGHT give me more top end without giving up drivability. Chine walk was a problem with the tempest 27p.

Ran trophy @ about 3" below pad. Had it jacked to 2", seemed to slip. Hit the down trim, speedo jumped. 82mph - 85 mph speedo = about 78 gps. Need a good dash mount gps for Christmas.

However - your'e right. A couple of mph at top end would not be worth the risk - handling, less hole shop, dead mid range.

I'm going to order the 27p trophy tomorrow. Have a "mild" working @ Merc prop shop, Fond du Lac. Be happy.

Thank's for your in put.
 
Boatman, I will look at one once the tests are in. I will always be interested in new tecnolgy that makes my Mate run faster and straighter.

At this time the Checkmate dealer I purchased from (spring of this year) is willing to make a deal - swap the 27p Tempest for a 27 Trophy. He is a Merc. dealer. Plus, I want to get it done now - that way I will be ready to rock next spring.
 
A 27 Trophy will probably turn more revs then a 27 Tempest. You will also notice the improvement in ever aspect. I would try it before you have it worked so you will know what you want them to tweak.
 
Almost all bass boats have a 12 to 18 inch setback built into the transom. I will take some extra bow weight over the tail heavy bass boat anyday. I have owned 3 bass boats and my 21BR is like a new Lexus in ride and handling compared to the bass boats.
 
Ray,

Put that 27 on and make a few runs this year ! I know you said you were pulling off the lake but you can't be too far from Winnebago or Butte Des Mortes or Winneconne or other bodies of water. Chris and I were talking about trying to get together possibly that first weekend in October(6-7) Make a few good runs trying some different props etc. I just made a run on the river here in Wrightstown last week Thursday. Temps were mid 60's and a nice chop over the river. Just myself and a half tank of gas I broke out an 80.1mph GPS. That's swinging a 25 Trophy Plus @ 6200rpms. I swapped a guy my 24 Trophy Plus for his 26 Trophy Plus. I'm hoping to get out and make a few runs with the 26. I'd like to be able to spin the 26 to around 6000rpms and see what that gives for a top speed.
 
Paul,

80+ on the gps, you are really rockin!

I am going to try to get my hands on the 27 Oct. 2nd. I will be traveling near Roberts Marine those days. However, my wife and I are going to visit our daughter & son-in-law, lake of the Ozarks, Mo. that week end, Oct 6th and 7th. Which is another story, ask me about their new Baja Outlaw with twin 496 v8s. 128 gal. gas tank. Ouch.

I would LOVE to run with you guys. Doubtfull this fall, weather, remodel projects at the lake, etc. If we miss this fall, let's agree to get together - on some water, next spring.

Good advice, run the new prob before having it worked. Will do.

Z
 
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