Slaw32 wrote:Looking for input on best prop for new to me setup . Motor is 2014 Yamaha 90hp four stroke , boat is 2014 south bay 522cr . Hoping someone will be able to recommend a good prop . Boat will be on small lake , not trying to set speed records , just want most efficient prop .
Welcome to the Forum!
Props are different for every application/individual usage. Google is not your friend in this case except for information on how props work. What prop was best for the other guy may not be best for you.
The way to start is to set up your boat under your "normal load". This means how you will normally be going out on the boat. (e.g You, 2 scantly clad women , 3 Coolers, 2 Dogs, a Keg and ice bucket, and a sturdy metal pole and plenty of towels
). Once you've got your set up, get out on the water with some good open space (hopefully a flat and non-windy day) and peg the throttle wide open. Let it stay there for a bit, and fiddle with your trim up and down until you feel like you're running your best. Read your RPM and make note of it. If you have a GPS speedometer, make note of your speed too. I know you said you're not looking for a speedster. But this is how you find out your prop's efficiency and slip numbers.
After that run. Throttle back and enjoy your day on the water, take lots of pictures and post them up here. Especially if your normal load out is anything like I described.
When you come home and unload everything - go back to the engine and squint at the prop and read the diameter and pitch of your current prop. With Yamaha props it's stamped right around the prop nut, or on the outside of one of the blades. But, depending on if it's aftermarket, and what manufacturer it also may be stamped on the outside of the body. It'll be something most likely similar to 13.75x15 or 13 3/4x15 (make sure you get both numbers including any fractions or decimals) You may need to hit it with some degreaser or use a flashlight if it's dirty. But with a 2014 engine, should be easy to see.
Post back up what your RPMs were and what prop you are running and we can begin working from there.