[Jim Grogan]

Does anyone know if there is a big enough advantage for just a casual boater to switch over to a Stainless Steel prop ?

[Jim Grogan]

My boat is a 1999 Mariah 182 Shabah with a 4.3 190hp Merc

[ColoradoDiablo]

Not enough that you'll notice. But hey.............they look cool.
I run them , but to be honest , you'll never notice the dif in the Aluminum or SS prop on the performance side. They do seem to run smoother than the aluminum props though in my opinion.
They are designed more for high hp performance boats.
JMO

[Andy b]

I find I get a lot more grip with a stainless prop than an Ali one, (less cavitation)
hole shot seems better and it's more stable when running at speed.
But a lot of that is down to prop choice (blade shape and cupping) you can spend a life time trying to find what works best for your setup and the conditions you run in.
Salt water is denser than fresh so the differences may be less noticeable on the lakes.

I change my prop just about every time I go out, depending on the weather or how many people I have in the boat. if i'm out for a blast or just cruising.
so I think what i'm trying to say is it's not a simple yes/no answer type of question. you just need to find out what works best for you.

Propellers | Mercury Marine

Just one thing, stay away from any propeller that gives you bow lift. that's the last thing you need in a Mariah

[mikeyt]

I have both but for the most part run a 4 blade 20" SS Michigan Wheel Apollo on my 180 as it gives me a good mix of low end grunt and mid range acceleration which works great for the type of boating i do.

Andy will have to be the fountain of information for salt water effects but as Larry noted SS tends to run just a bit smoother and in fresh water lakes/rivers there is a slight performance improvement but at nearly double the cost of an aluminum prop. You wont be unhappy with an Aluminum prop.....but the SS just looks much nicer.

[Andy b]

The Apollo is a fantastic all rounder
me personally i'd love to get my hands on a 21" 3 blade ballistic
you guys over there are spoilt for choice......
maybe it'll be in my hand luggage next time i'm over.....