2000 Ranger 518VX Prop Wash

[Bandersnatch]

I recently bought a 2000 ranger 518vx with a 2014 Merc 200 Optimax, it also has a hydraulic jack plate. I have the same jack plate on my 2008 z21 with a 250 that I also experienced prop wash with. Like my 08, I'm not worried about top end speed but want the quickest holeshot and handling. The 2000 blows out at any height/trim of the jackplate without extremely baby-ING the hot foot and even then I often can't get it too plane. What would be the best prop for shallow water holesshots, four blade? I put a mark croxton razor on my bigger ranger and it takes off quick. Worth noting, the boat does have poles and four batteries. Also, what is the open market resale value of its current prop (25 pitch tempest plus) 

[J Francho]

I can't specifically tell you what to get for your boat since each boat is different, but for my Bullet 21XDC with a 2.5L Pro Max, I found that a plugged and cupped 27 Trophy four blade gave me the fastest hole shot, and enough lift to plane at pretty slow speeds.  Top end was cut down to around 72 mph, but that was fine for me.  I'd blow out if I let all 260 horses go at once, but you learn to modulate your foot, and get the right "catch."  When I put a 29 3-blade on it, I could run at 85, but it took a half mile to get on plane, and forget doing anything less than 60 mph.  I had my manual plate set to about 1/2" below pad.

[TOXIC]

Generally speaking 4 blade props have more “bite” and are favored by those that run rougher water and are willing to give up a little top end.  What you are explaining is cavitation or blowout.  A 4 blade would help but there are other things to consider.  Some props need a blowout ring between the prop and gear case.  Where is your motor mounted on the jackplate and can it be dropped? You might need a different pitch prop for your setup.

[K1500]

Your setup is beyond the scope of my experience but I can attest that my Mercury has a plastic ‘blowout’ ring that wears pretty quickly and the prop cavitates when it is worn. I go through roughly one ring every 20’ish hours on the motor.