Hi everyone,

I have a 2000 Baja 302 with the 7.4L MPI (310hp) engines, bravo one (1.50R) ourdrives and the stock 3-blade Mirage Plus 25P props.

I'm looking to get a little more bite out of the hole and a little more top-end if possible. I know these might be opposing objectives, so that's why I'm asking you guys.

When coming out of the hole, I definitely have to ease her on plane (with tabs fully down), then I can raise the tabs and punch it and she responds as expected. I get right at 65mph top speed on the GPS and I get there pretty quick.

I heard that Baja went to 4-blade props in 2002 and wondered what the benefits were.

So, a few questions...

1. Would 4-blade props be better?
2. Can I get more top-end with different props, and if so, what kind of sacrifice would I make at the low-end?
3. Any particular prop recommendations?

As always, thanks to you all in advance,
-Michael

If you can get on plane with a 3 blade, a 4 blade will likely be slower, but faster on plane. Try a set of 25" Revolution 4 on it and see how it works for you. I think that B1's will be slower, both out of the hole and on top end than the Rev4's + the B1's have less bowlift than the Rev4's as well. Of course you could get what you have now, or might purchase, labbed.

I ran 22" 4 blades on my '99 302 with 7.4s. Hole shot and mid range was great but top end suffered a little. 62 ish.

I got 63 and change out of 23" Mirage, but preferred the mid range punch from the 4 blades.

In my opinion the 24" 4 blade and 25" 3 blade is a little much for your setup, but your top end numbers are already better than most. However, load your boat with weight and planing is a pain like you said. Everythiing is a trade off

The 25" 3-blades are what came on the boat new. Why would you think they are "too much?" I'm not arguing, just trying to understand.

Would a 5-blade 25" add anything?

They went to 4 blades because they raised the X dimension on most models 4 blades are IMO a huge improvement how often do you run at WOT most of the time I'm guessing your around 3500-4000 where you'd benefit from a 4 blade. I'd guess you'll need 22p Bravo's

23" 3 blade Mirage solid hubs is what came on my 302 new.

I spend a good bit of time at WOT. The lake here is about 30 miles from end-to-end and I put in at the top and we zoom to the bottom for dinner... usually a high-speed run before darkness sets in, and then a 25mph cruise back home after dark.

Many of you have mentioned "trying" a certain prop to see how it goes, but at $500-$1000 each, that's a lot of expensive "trying." Is there a place that lets you guys borrow a prop to see how well it does before you buy it? I don't know of anyone around here who stocks props in order to lend them out.

Thanks,
Michael

Bblades has a prop test program

I have the exact same set-up. Mine came w 23p Mirage Plus from the factory. Max I ever saw is 65mph GPS. (with a stiff tailwind) I can't get near the rev limiter tho. What RPM are you turning? I can't get 'er above 4200 with those props. Think the 7.4mpi maxes out around 4400, iirc.

I think its 4600. I couldn't turn 25 three blades or 24 4 blades to my liking. Especially with some weight in the boat. Ill admit though im more of a cruiser and rarely run wot