2000 VENTURA 18 OptiMax 135 Propeller Change
Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2022 7:18 pm
I have a 2000 Ventura 18 with a 135 Optimax that we bought in Fall 2021. The propeller is a MIRAGEplus 15-pitch.
We have only run the boat a few times. In testing with two adults aboard and a half-tank of fuel, the engine accelerates to 6,000-RPM and boat speed is 37-MPH. The boat feels over-propped to me.
I want to change to a propeller with 17-pitch, and perhaps an aluminum propeller for testing, before buying a more expensive stainless steel propeller. But most aluminum propellers with 17-pitch have a diameter of 14.25 or 14.5-inches. I want an aluminum propeller with the same diameter as the MIRAGEplis, 15.5-inches.
Q1: If the propeller diameter is limited to 14.25 to 14.5-inches, should I get an 18-pitch propeller--if I can find one?
Q2: If the propeller diameter is limited to 14.25 to 14.5-inches, should I get an 19-pitch propeller?
It seems to me a 19-pitch propeller would be too much for the Mercury 135-HP engine.
Advice will be appreciated--Keith
We have only run the boat a few times. In testing with two adults aboard and a half-tank of fuel, the engine accelerates to 6,000-RPM and boat speed is 37-MPH. The boat feels over-propped to me.
I want to change to a propeller with 17-pitch, and perhaps an aluminum propeller for testing, before buying a more expensive stainless steel propeller. But most aluminum propellers with 17-pitch have a diameter of 14.25 or 14.5-inches. I want an aluminum propeller with the same diameter as the MIRAGEplis, 15.5-inches.
Q1: If the propeller diameter is limited to 14.25 to 14.5-inches, should I get an 18-pitch propeller--if I can find one?
Q2: If the propeller diameter is limited to 14.25 to 14.5-inches, should I get an 19-pitch propeller?
It seems to me a 19-pitch propeller would be too much for the Mercury 135-HP engine.
Advice will be appreciated--Keith