[Joe1997]

I recently purchased a 1997 180shabah with the 3.0 alpha one merc in it, the boat came with a four blade 18 pitch prop that I am assuming was put on to pull skiers and tubers but the boat runs out at about 32mph. I am wondering how to find the original prop specs and what the top speed should be at wot. any help would be appreciated.

[Firestone]

Check the stickies on props. There are lots of variables. I only get about 38 mph fully trimmed down, but 47 MPH when at 1/2. My elevation is 5000 ft. What is yours?

[Joe1997]

Thanks I went through the stickies, lots of good info in there. I live at sea level ie. lake Michigan,
I just found it funny that no one can tell you what the oem reccommmened prop was for this unit, or what came with it from the factory, my wife and I like to mostly just rec ride not much towing so I'm going to just experiment I purchased a 21 pitch and am going to pick up a 19 ( local dealer was out of stock) and see which I like best. for 85 bucks ill just keep the second one for the spare.

[Firestone]

Each Mariah was custom ordered and props really depend on many factors. You can pick up props on Craigslist for pretty cheap as well

[Joe1997]

Thanks for the help, We took our boat out last weekend with the 14.3/ 21pitch prop on it. She came out of the hole surprisingly well and planed out very quickly, topped out at 4600rpm and 41mph trimmed up (according to GPS), not bad for a little four popper, my wife and I are both pretty tickled with the performance. Think well keep her like this for a while.
Joe