Reply To: OMC 3hp Lightwin – JW gearbox- prop

[Don]

Likewise, didn’t research all the points you have mentioned.  But, I have noticed that the earlier three blade props used on early 50s models weedless 3hps seem to be slightly less pitch than the later 50s models through the 60s.  Again, I would have to actually research this to see if my observation is correct.  I was not aware that the gears/ratios changed slightly either, but that is entirely possible.  Again, we are speaking about the weedless drive models, not the right angle models.

The two blade props used for most of those years seems to be slightly more pitch than the 3 blade props that were introduced on the 4hp models in 69.  In most cases, these engines are incapable of planing a boat, so trying to compare top speeds seems pointless.  What prop do you have now?  If you have the original three blade prop, go ahead and try it.  Replace it with the 2 blade prop if the engine seems to over rev slightly.