Reducing Propeller Pitch for Towing

[tsf]

I've had a fantastic utility boat for the last 2 years - a Quicksliver Active 555 Open with 100HP Mercury Outboard.

The boat is perfect for fishing and skiing. Until we want to ski with a big group.. Then everything quickly starts to feel underpowered. Any more than driver, spotter and skier and it can be a bit of a drag getting skiers and boarders out of the water.

I guess in theory I could change the prop to get a power curve more suited to low-end torque. Currently have a 13.25" dia 17" pitch prop, stock on the engine. What would be the logical prop choice to potentially give some more torque to get skiers out of the water with a loaded boat?

I've seen the same model prop in a 14.5 dia 15" pitch on ebay. Would that be worth a go? What will the extra diameter do? More than happy to lower the top speed by a few knots.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/232402904951?chn=ps

 

[Hot Property]

You need to lower the pitch by at least 2" so a 15". You could also consider a 4 blade prop like this:-

https://www.bottomlinemarine.com/pr...RQwqAa0o1NfgQ0Szi58IHz9-vzZ7eolBoCv9kQAvD_BwE

Use the prop calculator at https://www.mercurymarine.com/en/us/propellers/selector/#!/step-one to get you into the ball park.

100 hp on a boat that size with 3 people and trying to pull skiers is a bit on the low side but a prop change when you go skiiing only should sort you out!