4 blade props vs three ?

[bud37]

Is there any noticeable difference in bite between three and four blade props in reverse??.....

[mjk1040]

Way to scientific for a Sunday morning after two bloody marys for me! Only operated 4 blade props on an inboard so far and I know how well they respond.

[waybomb]

I have no idea but more blade area in water should help

[RGrew176]

You so have a little more blade surface area so I would think that there would be a bit more grab in either forward or reverse. My 3007 has 4 blade propellers. Seems to grab well enough in either direction.

[SplashyLady]

Actually, 3 blade props work better in reverse. Although efficiency generally goes up with the number of blades on a prop moving forward, they are not optimized for reverse and can't bite well. I've had 3, 4, and 5 blade props on my Aquasport and the ability to get a good stop or move well in reverse was best on the 3-blade, and worst on the 5-blade. It's probably a cavitation issue. You will see several similar experiences on some of the boating forums out the on the old triple-w.

[bud37]

Source of the post Actually, 3 blade props work better in reverse. Although efficiency generally goes up with the number of blades on a prop moving forward, they are not optimized for reverse and can't bite well. I've had 3, 4, and 5 blade props on my Aquasport and the ability to get a good stop or move well in reverse was best on the 3-blade, and worst on the 5-blade. It's probably a cavitation issue. You will see several similar experiences on some of the boating forums out the on the old triple-w.

I noticed this with this boat.. less bite in reverse than forward and these props are 4 blade, very noticeable when spinning boat , but was not sure because previous boat was a slightly different hull with three blades......so maybe not a good comparison.....

[gmwalley]

Would depend a lot on overall design of the blade shape and curvature. Most inboard boats have props based on designs developed during the 1800's. My prop shop recommended I upgrade to a newer design (just had the props service after a log strike) and will follow his advice when I buy a second set of props in preparation for upcoming long trip.

[Karen Powell]

I think 4 blade prop is the answer for all the problems. It is smoother and has better holeshot. It has got more bite in the ocean esp in the following sea.It's a better option in fwd-reverse docking and better gph at cruise.

[amanphoto]

I have 4 blade props (20x20) on my Carver Mariner 350. I've only had 4 blade props on this boat so I don't have any comparison. I can tell you that It seams to take a really while to react in reverse.

[rjr]

Don't know nothing 'bout no props but Prop Joe (bonus points if you can name the series) might say "diameter and pitch rule the seas"