Determining Pitch

One word that you want to remember when it comes to boat props is the term pitch. In general, for every 2" of boat propeller pitch, the revolutions per minute will be about 400 RPMs. If we plan to have the best functioning boat engine in the bay, we must decide upon a lower pitch prop. Choosing a lower pitch propeller will increase the revolutions per minute. This would also result in a boat that is faster than many of the other boats in that same body of water.

While this is usually the way that things work when it comes to boat props, this is not always the case. It is worth noting that various other factors such as the brand (e.g. Solas, Michigan Wheel, Volvo Penta, Turning Point) can also alter the performance of your boat. However, a boat propeller with less pitch usually has a lower number of revolutions per minute, and having more pitch will create the opposite affect.

What's your RPM?

The number of revolutions per minute of a boating engine is an important factor to consider. Knowing the specific number that the maker of your boat recommends is very helpful when it comes to choosing which size boat prop to buy. The things you need to focus on when you are attempting to obtain the right size prop for your boat are diameter and pitch. Once you have had a chance to test different boat props that vary in diameter and pitch, you will understand which boat prop works best for you. Unluckily, if you do not do sufficient testing with the boat props you are experimenting with, this can lead to severe engine damage, pitiful hole shot and a number of other concerns that testing could prevent. Shop around, take your time, and test props with different pitch and diameter. This will help you to pick the best boat prop that is available.