looking for right prop for volvo 280 outdrive, need help!
 

i have a 1978 24' P&D with a 351W motor the was recently rebuilt and with a 280 volvo outdrive with a 15x21 RH turning prop. MY mph is about 4 under whatever my rpms are (ex: 4000 rpms and im running about 36 or 37 mph.) I was told to put a 16x23 prop so it will at least match up. Any advice on where i can find one or what size i should go with?

Prop
 

I had a old (87' Sleekcraft) 30' with twin 425 hp smallblocks. Ran some rehub Mirages 25 pitch with the defuser ring cut off. Also was running hydromotive nose cones on them with a 1.5" trimmed of the skag. Boat ran 76 mph. So thats what worked with my 280's. The 16" I think would be to big. What rpm's do you want to run at?

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I have the old style simple outdrive, is that what you had? I would like my cruising speed to be at about 3800-4200 rpms but i want to get the most mph possible. My motor is pushing about 375hp so thats why i was told that the 16 would be ok.

Drive and prop
 

I actually had the 290 style drives. If you want to keep the rpm down the 16" would be the one for that. I would turn the Mirages @ 51 to 5300 rpm. Tried some Hill props (16 x 23pitch 3 blades) on the same boat, but lost about 300 rpm and 5 mph on the top end compared to the Mirage style props. I am no prop expert by any means. But would almost think that would be to much prop for your application? Maybe one of the prop guy's could chime in... Pete

If you have already experienced it then thats what I wanted to hear, the results that someone got with those props. So you got a5mph more with the Mirage props? Where did you get the Mirage style props at?

I would try to find a good local prop shop, and see if they would let you test some sets. Volvo performance props for those drives are a rare thing. So rehubing some Mercury props are a option. It can get expensive prop testing, being rehubing is the only option. My "guess" would be to start with a 21 pitch and test from there. I spent two seasons testing props on that boat. With out knowing your boat, set up it is a gamble. Good luck it can be tireless..Pete

i think that is what i might just do then, thanks alot for your input