can I use an aluminumm prop?

[plastic1]

I apologize if this has been discussed in an earlier thread, there are way too many to read through. I have a '96 218 persuader and it has a stainless four blade on it. it runs good, I can not say what numers it will run as I dont care about top speed. I talked to mike Combs and he told me I can not run an aluminum prop on a checkmate because the X dimension is (at least on my boat) one inch higher and I will blow out the aluminum prop. I used to own a senator and ran an aluminum on that with no problems, when I told Mike he sounded surprised. I would like to run aluminum because the waterway I use is shallow and in the event of hitting something I would prefer to sacrifice the prop and save the drive. Does anyone else here run aluminum on a similar or larger mate? thanks.

 

[JW]

I run an aluminum on my current boat, as I haven't done any mods to chase after top speed yet. I'm getting 55-56 mph GPS with a 21" aluminum Mercury 3-blade.

But yes, a Checkmate WILL wear out an aluminum prop quicker than most boats. The ventilation we get from higher I/O 'X' dimensions and from high trim settings on outboards will 'burn' the prop. I have burn marks in the center of each of my blades after just one summer of running. No biggie, aluminum props are cheap and easy to get.

 

[boatman4021]

Try using a Hustler aluminum prop. They give great performance, close to most ss, better than some. They have more rake and cup than oem props and will work great on your Checkmate. I use them often. If you want to give 1 a try, pm me and I will hook you up. boatman

 

[Enticer1]

Boatman4021

Gary (Boatman4021) hooked me up with a Hustler a while back and I loved that prop. It was a good bang for the bucks.

 

[Needafunboat]

On my starliner, I ran 23p cheap aluminum prop and as soon as I'd trim out it would ventilate BADLY. It ran OK at lower speeds and trim down, but was nothing like the trophy's or high 5's I've run.