Swapping Props

I have a 97 Sport with the GT 40. One of the reasons I have this boat is because it is such a great "do everything" boat.    I am more of a skier and have been just starting to barefoot.
But in MT we have such a short season that we try enjoy all of the watersports.   Its nice to surf on a windy day and lots of my friends wake board.

I have both the ACME 1868 prop (12.5 x 14.25) and a 422 (12.5 x 15.5)
I love the 1868 for hole shot and heavy loads, but it really screams when you slalom and top speed is about 37-38 at our elevation.   The 422 runs really nice for faster sports but I always feel like the boat is really lugging with a lot of weight when we surf. (Could just be in my head).

Is it hard on the engine to be switching props back and forth?    Does the engine get "used" to being run a certain way?   I had heard that some where and wondered if there was any truth to it. Was curious to hear all of your opinions.

"The soul of the machine is just a projection of our human condition. "

Ha ha than my boat is pretty messed up!

My brother has this 654 that I could try to convince him to unload.

If it wasn't to spec I wouldn't sell it here.

*mtrbtr* wrote: Still curious is swapping props back and forth has any affect on the engine life etc.

No the engine doesn't know or care what it's pushing. It's going to put out what it has no matter what's on the other end.
That being said it's probably easier on the motor to be under propped then over propped. These motors will run 5 grand all day long but I wouldn't want to push a prop all day that puts a big strain on the motor through out the RPM range.

Jonny Quest wrote: a0128 wrote: Have you tried the 654? It's right in the middle of the two props you mention. Diameter is the same (12.5"), pitch is 15". It might be a good compromise. +1 I run the Acme 654 and I'm at 4,200 feet elevation. Great prop for my '94 Ski Nautique with 351W High Output. JQ

I also run the 654 (which is why I recommended it). It is a great all-around prop. For reference my Pro Air (GT-40) runs 30.5 mph @ 3100 rpm. Wake board speeds are roughly 22 mph @ 2700 rpm. No idea what RPMs WOT is.

*mtrbtr* wrote: JQ where are you at WOT?

OK, Sparky, here's the deal:

4,200 feet
3 people in boat
43 MPH
4,800 RPMs at W-O-T

(I ran this last Saturday)