Need Prop Advice for a 73 X18
I read some great content about this subject especially from Big Griz. I have an all original 1973 X18 with a recently re-built 350 Chevy 300+hp through a Volvo-Penta 270 no trim of course. I am thinking of going with a Solas SS and can't decide between a 21 inch and 23 pitch. I don't pull skiers so don't care about coming out of the hole. I like a high bow ride and run this boat on an inland lake so not concerned about going too fast. Biggest wave I see is from someone pulling a wake boarder.
I am getting to about 52 mph GPS at 5400 RPM. Would love to approach or hit 60 mph. A little blowout occasionally is okay.
I would appreciate any good suggestions. Thanks!
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What prop diameter is appropriate?
I also have an X-18 (1972), and I am thinking that a Solas 21 prop might give me a bit more speed.
My boat has a bronze prop and runs in the mid-50s at a bit under 5,000 RPM.
Engine is a Ford 351 with Cobra heads. No idea what horsepower, but previous owner built it for reliability more than output. The reason that I think a new prop might help is because the prop hub is a lot smaller than the drive diameter, so I am guessing that I am getting a bit of cavitation and slip. However, the boat is really stable at speed.
No idea of the pitch. Here is what it looks like. Any advice would be very much appreciated.
- Don
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