[agarrod]

I just got a 1994 202 shaba with a 5.0 L fi volvo penta in it not happy with performance. it currently has a 13.38x25 prop on it now what do you guys think am I proped wrong?

[mikeyt]

What kind of performance are you getting from the existing prop? WOT rpms and top speed? Even without knowing that information I do suspect you are incorrectly propped but we need a baseline to work with from the existing prop.

[Bailey James]

By poor performace, you mean top end, hole shot? Also curious about rpm & speed at WOT, that's key info.
I agree w/ Mikey, on its face seems you're way over propped. I'd guess RPMs are much lower than desired, and sluggish getting up out of the hole. If your main concern is getting up on plane, I'd think you'd be going down to a 21 or so.
I have a feeling once you get the right prop you'll see a major improvement in this case!

Call or search around - prop shops, west marine etc, and get some professional opinions in addition to those found here.
Good luck!

[agarrod]

thanks guys . yea coming up out of the water is very sluggish and rpm at wot is around 3800-4000 and top speed is never enough you know how that goes but its about 40 -43 mph

[mikeyt]

If those rpm & speed numbers are reasonably accurate then i would suggest dropping down to 19" 3 blade or 20" 4 blade which will bring your rpms up to the recommended WOT max of 4800 for that 4.3 You will also see a huge improvement in low-mid range acceleration and likely run in the 45 - 47mph (GPS) at top speed. Dont believe what your speedometer tells you...

[agarrod]

Thanks its not a 4.3 though its a 5 liter volvo penta i was thinking dropping to a 23 - 3 blade you think it should be more and mph was done with gps

[mikeyt]

For some reason i read "5.0" but still entered 4.3 It really doesn't make any difference. The recommended range for your motor is the same and the change in prop needs to be more drastic than dropping to a 23" You gain approx 200rpm for every inch you dop in prop pitch. You've got approx 800-1000rpms to make up which means a 4" - 5" drop is likely needed.

[DCB_MINDED]

I have a friend that has a 21' stingray with the 5.0 penta in it. It was a little sluggish when towing, and he went to a 21p HighFive. That this is like a rocket out of the hole now, and will still run about 47-48 mph.