PROP

[liquidcourage]

Im uping my ballast weight this summer to 2000lbs. My dealer said i will need a new prop to make the boat handle right. i have an 02 LSV with the 330hp engine. Is a new prop really needed?

[mtvfiremedic]

NO.!!!.. I have stainless OEM prop and just added 1200 lbs to my 2002 LSV with 320 EFI engine and it handles just fine.. no problem getting up or with power delivery.. he just wants to sell you a new prop.

[liquidcourage]

Thats what it sounded like to me too but i wanted a second opinion. did the extra weight make a big difference on wake size? judging by your callsign your a fireman/paramedic? I used to be a cop and some of my best friends are firmen/paramedic so thanks for the info on the boat and thanks for the job you do...

[purplepower]

First of all, let me say that I do not own an LSV. Mtvfiremedic does so I would value his opinion.

The advantage of the boats we own is they are designed for towing and their engines have stump pulling torque through much of the rev range. So prop matching is less critical than in most boats (particularly outboards). Having said all that, you have to believe that the dynamics of the boat are very different when you add that much ballast.

The factory installed prop is the optimum for an average weight/ballast range. If you spend most of your time towing at slower speeds with full ballast then likely you would benefit from a prop (more blades) with less pitch. That would give you a better hole shot fully loaded and keep you in a better rev range at towing speeds. Yes you would lose some top end but if you are happy to carry that much ballast then you are not worried about speed, right? If you are using the boat for a mix of towing and general recreation then the current prop is likely fine.

If you are going try a different, prop go to a specialist who has a range of props to try. The specs on the standard prop (and current rev range it gives fully ballasted) will give a starting point. Do not commit to buy a particular prop until you have tried a few props under all conditions. You will have to give some assurance that you will buy a prop when satisfied and that is only fair.

I know there is currently a trend towards stainless props. If you are considering some experimentation, go with a nibral prop. They can be pitched up or down or have their cup (helps the prop to grab the water) altered by a good prop specialist. This gives some flexibilty after you finally make your purchase.

Lastly, it is a good idea to carry a spare prop so unless you are getting a good buck for your "old " prop, hang on to it. And as mtvfiremedic says, try it with the standard prop before you spend your money.