[Threejakes]

The prop on our Shabah 182, alpha I drive is a 3 blade aluminum 14.5X 19-is that the standard issue prop? I have a 14.5X17 and a 14.5X21.
What is the original size prop when it left the factory in Benton, Il.?
What is the best overall aluminum prop size for this setup.
We use the boat on our local lake for cruising, towing a tube, and water skiing.

[Fletch2]

With that selection of props, im going to assume you have a 3 ltr engine?
If so the 19 was probably the standard prop and the previous owner(s) have added a 21 for cruising and a 17 for more holeshot for skiing/wakeboarding etc

Swapping props around helps to make the most of the 135 ponies....

[Threejakes]

Actually it's the 4.3 Chevrolet V6.

[Fletch2]

Ah. The 17 would look to be over revvy on a 4.3 (unless pulling 2 deepwater start monoskiers).
What drive/gearbox is fitted? I seem to remember my bro being asked which prop he wanted fitted prior to buying his boat. 17 or 19 was the choice depending on what the boat was going to be used for most.
If the engine revs cleanly to WOT with the 19 pitch fited, that sounds like the right size. If it struggles to get to WOT, drop to the 17.
I might try an Alpha 4 at 18 pitch next summer for little more holeshot when skiing, without (according to reviews) much sacrifice on top end.

[Threejakes]

The gear ratio is 1:62. Alpha 1.

[ColoradoDiablo]

You need to find out what your WOT is and go from there Threejakes. Once that is established , you can pick a prop that will give you the best of both worlds.
She more than likely came out of Benton with a 19P , but that means nothing.
I run a 19P 4 blade SS on my 4.3 for the most part , with a 17P 4 blade SS for higher elevations and multiple tubes.

[mikeyt]

Probably a good idea to read the STICKYS at the top of the Prop Talk forum for a little self-education.

[Fletch2]

Best prop to use is very subjective. Usually get more answers than you can shake a stick at...

The 19 would probably suit you best. As I said in previous post, check the engine will happily pull to WOT (4400 to 4800 rpm). If it does that, your prop is the right pitch. If it struggles to get there, go one size smaller. If it goes easily right through the WOT range to the rev limiter (if fitted), go a size larger. Thats always been my rule of thumb....

[Threejakes]

Thanks for everyone's suggestions. After reading the "stickys" I think I'll get a 14X19 4 blade Spitfire. You have all been very helpful and Thanks for the education.

[Smokymance]

Originally Posted by Threejakes

Thanks for everyone's suggestions. After reading the "stickys" I think I'll get a 14X19 4 blade Spitfire. You have all been very helpful and Thanks for the education.

Let us know how you like it...

I practically have the same boat w the same powertrain w a SS 21p prop...she cooks at top speed and can use a lil take off