Need Some Input 92 175 HP Mercury Propeller Help

**Crappiecrazy** · 05-09-2021, 08:47 PM

I have a 1993 Skeeter 200SX with a 1992 175HP Mercury Outboard. I’ve had this boat since 2018 and have been disappointed that for some reason it will only run 50 mph @5500 rpm. Seems to me this boat should be a little faster. The current prop on the engine is a 5 blade “High Five”. I’m not sure of the pitch, as I could not find it etched on any of the blades. I’m wondering if I should purchase a 3 blade turbo prop for it in the hopes a getting a little more speed. Anyone have any ideas that might help would be greatly appreciated.

**rgsauger** · 05-09-2021, 11:56 PM

High 5 props are usually associated with pulling water toys or heavy stuff. Probably jumps up but then goes flat. Yes, you will want a 3 or 4 blade prop. Check out bassboatcentral.com and post this in the Skeeter forum. You'll have your answer tomorrow.

**Crappiecrazy** · 05-10-2021, 07:49 PM

Thanks !

**25two.stroke** · 05-10-2021, 08:05 PM

Originally Posted by Crappiecrazy

Thanks !

Yes, you will see high fives on a lot of heavy bass boats and some similarly shaped ski V hulls. They pop you out of the hole good but are not ideal for max speed.
I would be looking into a LazerII or similar with some vent holes and pvc plugs so that you can adjust the cavitation to get your ideal holeshot. If you can't find any info on the bass boat forums I would start somewhere around a 21 or 23 pitch.

Also, do you have your engine on a jack plate, and if so have you messed with the height?

**Crappiecrazy** · 05-10-2021, 08:38 PM

thanks for the input

**Crappiecrazy** · 05-10-2021, 08:38 PM

do not have a jack plate

**rgsauger** · 05-11-2021, 07:55 AM

So if you want any speed out of your rig, you probably have to get your motor up a little. Set the boat level using the trailer tongue and then trim the motor down to neutral position - level cavitation plate. Now measure from the center of the prop shaft to the ground, and from the bottom of the back of the boat to the ground. Subtract one from the other and post it here - that's "prop to pad" height. What mounting holes are the bolts in on your motor? Post a pic?

I would pass on the Laser II prop for your boat as the blades are not big enough to carry your Skeeter. Probably looking at a Tempest or similar. Check BBC - the boys there can give you a specific setup that will work on day one.

**Crappiecrazy** · 05-12-2021, 10:18 PM

Thanks - I will check the height this weekend.

**keefallan** · 05-13-2021, 03:48 AM

Post some pics if possible. But like Rgsauer said. check your running height. It sounds like you are running low in the water.

**rgsauger** · 05-13-2021, 11:51 AM

Originally Posted by Crappiecrazy

Thanks - I will check the height this weekend.

Here's a couple of links. Just trying to save you time and $$. One is for Skeeter in particular and the other is for Setups.

http://www.bbcboards.net/forumdisplay.php?f=49&

http://www.bbcboards.net/forumdisplay.php?f=117

Please do post pics of your rig.