We have a 20 FT Wellcraft Cuddy, 305 V-8?

Question

It has a 14 1/4 X 19 4 Blade SS Prop, the fuel consumption is rediculous, we dont do Fast although it GPS,s to 46.9 MPH @ 3700 RPM .

even at 1200 RPM,s we use about 20 Gallons for the 15 mile trip to our Lake from the landing. the next landing is 50 miles away. Im sure it,s Way over Proped.

What would be the correct prop for us?

Thank You.

Answer 1

It's way over propped and the engine is laboring,  A 3 blade 14x17 should get you into the  4200 to 4600 rpm WOT range. Try running at 3000 to 3300 rpm for best mpg with this prop.

Answer 2

What idiot installed this monster prop on a 305 v-8.  This prop is designed for the big boys: 454 and 502.  That motor won't even pull that prop.  Your tack should be running at max 4800 rpm for the correct prop size. I would definitely change that prop and drop down to a 3 blade, 17 Pitch.  At 1200 rpm you will burn a lot of fuel.  Try to run around 2500 to 3000 for the best fuel performance.  Contact "iboats.com" for more info on their FREE forums about this type of problems.