Erik Christiansen (R) and I unveil the coveted 1650 RACE sterndrive.
I just got back from the Miami Boat Show where, in addition to our unveiling of the awesome 1650 RACE sterndrive, we debuted the all-new Pro Max outboard propeller. Some of you may be familiar with the high performance 150/200/225 h.p. Pro Max outboards we produced back in the mid 1990s. I thought the Pro Max name was perfect for our new prop and it’s intended applications.
We needed a prop to help lighter weight hulls get up on plane faster and improve top end speeds. The Bravo I XS is the solution for 2-strokes carrying heavier loads. The Bravo I FS is the prop for four strokes with heavy assignments (single and multiple engine rigs) as well. The new Pro Max fills the gap for OptiMax ProXS and 300XS and Verado Pro FourStroke outboard applications on hulls with natural bow lift.
An Allison XS-2003 GrandSport was used to validate the Pro Max for sport boat applications.
Outboard drag racing veteran Glenn Reynolds, owner of Reynolds Racing and Marine, helped validate the prop for us. Glenn ran it on an Allison XS-2003 GrandSport with the new Mercury 150 Four Stroke. He also provided an OptiMax 250 ProXS powered Bullet 21XD bass boat. Glenn and his team are ecstatic with the Pro Max. “We experienced jacket rabbit acceleration. Both boats were on plane in 1-1/2 seconds!,” exclaimed Glenn. The Allison didn’t realize any change in top-end speed due to the engine height restriction with water pickup location on the stock 150 gearcase.
“The Bullet, benefiting with a high performance Torque Master gearcase, improved on both hole shot and top-end speeds,” said Glenn. “We did back-to-back tests comparing the Pro Max with like size Pro E.T.s as well as a variety of other props. The Pro Max outperformed everything on the ramp. We love it!,” Glenn concluded.
Eric Simmons test the Pro Max on his go fast SCB flats boat.
The Pro Max prop was mounted on an OptiMax 250 Pro XS for the flats boat test.
Eric Simmons, owner of Simmons Custom Boats, was my go fast flats test guy. He too tested with an OptiMax 250 ProXS. “We’ve dialed in our boats with the Pro E.T. It’s a very durable prop. If we could get acceleration similar to what we experience with the Bravos, while maintaining the E.T. blade durability and overall performance, I would say you have a winner,” said Eric in our initial phone conversation regarding the project. “Water levels are an issue where we are. Hitting bottom is inevitable and thus blade durability is a big deal,” Eric said.
Pro Max BASS Classic. display.
A Bullet 21XD similar to this was used to validate the Pro Max for bass boat applications.
Upon completion of his tests Eric called to say we have a winner. “The Pro Max’s appeal is it’s speed and efficiency coupled with the improved hole shot realized with the through hub exhaust, said Eric. “Our testing produced considerably lower slip numbers, proving you nailed your proof of concept in every aspect. We can’t wait to get some of these for our customers,” said Eric.
Glenn and Eric have been an immense help in making the Pro Max a reality. Production starts in April. Meanwhile, I’m off to Tulsa, Oklahoma later this week for the BASS Master Classic. I will display the Pro Max there in the Mercury Marine booth. For those of you going to the show – stop by. I would love to see you and chat about props. I’m excited about the new Pro Max and our expanded mix of low emissions outboard props. Now if it would just quit snowing! Spring and Summer can’t come soon enough :)
I have a 28 foot E-Ticket cat with twin 300xs. Would like info and pricing on new props.
Hi Justin.
Your rig sounds nice. What props are you currently running? Please provide the style, i.e. through hub exhaust Bravo style or over the hub cleaver, size and pitch. Please also provide your speed and engine operating RPM at wide open throttle. That will help me determine the props best suited for your application.
Scott
How does the Pro Max perform against the Fury?
Good question, Dustin.
All testing to date has been focused on high speed applications for which the Fury is not intended for. We will learn more once Pro Max production begins in the Spring and people begin using them in the field.
Scott
How would this new prop work on a 2001 ProCraft Combo 215 F&S with a Merc 225 EFI?
Kevin:
The Pro Max should be a good fit for your ProCraft. To be sure, I need a baseline to work from. Please respond with information regarding the current prop style and pitch you are running. Your speed and engine operating RPM at wide open throttle would be helpful as well.
Scott
I have a 2200 Gambler w/250XS with 1.62 gears. I currently run a modded 26 Fury. How well would this prop run with my set-up?
Hi Danny,
Sounds like a hot setup. What pitch Fury are you running? What is your engine operating RPM and boat speed at wide open throttle?
Scott
Scott running a 27 trophy plus on 300hp merc. Engine height 35mm below plank revs 6250. Towing one skier to 84mph. Run a 30 ET pro labbed to similair revs to 87mph. Interested in thoughts and pitch for this prop. Sounds very interesting.
Jeff,
The Pro Max should be more efficient than the 30 E.T. and the Trophy. One of the criteria during the develop process was to ensure the prop would stay hooked up through tight turns. This was accomplished, in part, by the positioning of the blades where they mount to the hub.
Scott
Hi Scott, How about an Allison XB21 BasSport Pro/Merc 250XS 1.75 gears combo?? Currently running a worked Bravo with dual PVS holes even to 1/2″ above the pad?? Any testing done with your new prop for surfacing? Thanks, Craig
Hi Craig,
This will be your prop of choice. We did some testing with Darris Allison (he thinks it’s awesome). We had the pleasure of hosting Darris in the Mercury booth at the Miami Int’l Show. Darris said, “You all are going to sell a lot of these Pro Max props.” Good stuff.
Scott
thanks for the reply Scott. Any idea what pitch I’ll need based on the info I provided?
Thanks
Craig
Craig,
What pitch Bravo I are you using and what is your engine RPM at WOT?
Scott
thanks for the reply Scott. I’m currently running a 30P Bravo 1 with dual PVS holes and the outer ones closed off. I’m a bit over 6000 RPM’s, 90 mph, good hole shot and good mid-range punch with full load and two people.
Thanks
Craig
Craig,
If you have a Bravo I with dual PVS installed, I’m thinking your prop blades have been modified also. It can be challenging to get the correct pitch, depending on the work that was done. I’m thinking a 29-inch pitch Pro Finished version of the Pro Max.
Scott
I’m running a 26 pitch Fury. Its been worked up about 26.5. My RPM limiter is set at 5850. I can twist up the Fury to 5820 at 82-84 GPS. Im looking into getting the ECU reprogrammed and propping it to turn 6000 RPM.
Danny,
You are getting good numbers with the Fury. The Pro Max should get you similar numbers at the current height. The Fury runs better deeper in the water. The new Pro Max is designed to run higher. Raising your engine with the Pro Max should give you a couple more mph.
Scott
Currently running a Kevlar flats boat with a 250XS and Torque Master. I like the Bravo XS, but wish it had more bow lift. Do you expect the Pro Max might carry the bow a bit better?
Kevin,
The Pro Max will offer a tremendous amount of lift, substantially more than the Bravo I XS. It’s going to be your prop. Expect to hit higher numbers.
Scott
I also have a Gambler 2200 with 250 ProXS with 1.75 gears, Torque Master L.U., 12″ Bob’s hydraulic jackplate. Running a 28 pitch Bravo I B&B dual pvs @ 5800-5900 RPM depending on humidity and air temp, 77-79 MPH.
Do you think this prop would run well on my setup?
Robert,
What are you running?
Robert,
You’re going to enjoy the Pro Max from hole shot to wide open throttle. We did some testing with Bob Ackerbloom from Gambler/Shearwater. He stated he has never run anything that has performed like the Pro Max….ever! It features zero balanced blades with tuned leading edges, durable trailing edges (X7 alloy helps) and a massive amount of cup. The cup and parabolic rake offers increased bow lift to achieve even greater top end numbers.
Scott
Hi Scott. Currently have a 250XS on a 22″ pad vee bottom weighing 1850 lbs fully rigged w 4″ setback. My best prop is a Pro ET 28 Lab Finished, spinning at 6200 – 6300 RPM at 85 – 86 MPH. How does the new Pro Max compare to the Pro E.T. in terms of Pro ET Revs vs Pro MAX Revs (both Lab Finish and Pro Finish)?
I would ike to know what pitch I will be needing to keep the revs just about the same as they currently are with the Pro ET (while improving my holeshot and mid-range acceleration).
Also, did you observe any top speed differences (again same pitch & finish between the Pro ET & Pro Max)?
Thanks
Hi Joe,
Great set up. You are really going to enjoy the Pro Max. We gained 150 RPM and 2.5 to 3 MPH speed increases when comparing the 28″ Pro Max with the 28″ Pro E.T. You should be able to move up from your 28″ pitch Pro ET to the 29″ pitch Pro Max. Good stuff!
Scott
Thanks for the reply. So a 28 LAB finished ProMax should rev approx 150rpm more then a 28 LAB finished Pro ET? Also, when comparing the latter 2 props (both lab) should the Lab ProMax have greater bow lift then the Lab Pro ET?
Joe,
It’s looking like it will, which means moving up one more inch of pitch.
Bow lift will be greater with the Pro Max.
Scott
1995 Gambler 2009 225 Pro XS. Best prop to date has been a 27p Trophy that has additional cupping. With a light load 80-81mph @ 5800 rpms approx. 2″ below the pad. With a heavy load I’m seeing 77-78mph. I have tried a 28p Bravo 1 XS and lost about 4mph and a 26p Bravo 1 XS and lost a similar amount though the rpms were 5990-6010. Also tried a worked 26p Fury which took forever to get up to speed.
I am a bit confused though as published information indicates the Pro Max is designed for hulls with natural bow lift. But in reading some of these replys you indicate the Pro Max provides outstanding bow lift. My 209 hull thrives on bow lift! As stated, for me, the Trophy has been the prop of choice with the negative coming in it’s inability to carry the bow at elevated engine heights. Welll.. there’s another negative but I won’t go there….:>)
The Pro Max has a parabolic rake. As you move out to the tip of the blades, the rake increases. This results in great bow lift. It also has a tremendous amount of cup, especially at the maximum diameter. This enables the prop to stay hooked up as the engine height is elevated. The Pro Max will also over come the other drawback you didn’t want to mention about the Trophy. The prop just rocks.
Thanks for the response Scott. Any info on a release date?
Robert,
The 25, 26 27 and 28″ pitch should be ready to ship in April, the remaining pitches will follow in May.
Saw testing was done with Glenn Reynolds. I have that combo, a 21XRD Bullet with 250 ProXS. What speeds were they running and what pitch would you think would be right? 1:75 gears.
Thanks,
Ronnie
Ronnie,
Running a 1.75:1 Torque Master gearcase, the Pro Finish 28″ Pro E.T. enabled the engine to turn 6050 to 6100 RPM at 84.7 mph. The Pro Finish, 28″ pitch Pro Max turned 6200 RPM at 87.9 mph. Boat set up and bottom work was done by Glenn Reynolds. Good stuff.
Scott
If I am currently running a 26P trophy Plus to 5800 RPM’s WOT to 70-71, will this be a pitch for pitch prop or will I need to go one way or the other in pitch?
Greg,
When it comes to the Trophy, it’s looking like pitch for pitch.
Scott
I currently run an Allison GrandSport w/200hp OptiMax, coned 1.75 gearcase, 28″ pitch Hydromotive turning 5800 rpm @ 82 mph with 4 people in boat. With only two people in boat, it’s all over the limiter. Would I need to go up in pitch, or stay with a 28″ Pro Max?
Hi Scott,
It’s too early in the game to give you an idea how the Pro Max pitch compares with the Hydro. Hydro’s seem to be a little tall in pitch. A lot of it depends on what they did to it.
Scott
How will the pitch compare to the Bravo1 XS?
Rusty,
Not certain. We will find out this next month and let you know.
Scott
Hi Scott. I run a 2200 Gambler with a 250 Pro XB. Torque master LU. I run a worked 28 Bravo I w/ dual PVS at 81-82 GPS @ 6200 rpms. I’m plugging the top three holes on the LU soon to maintain WP at higher JP heights.
Would the new ProMax outperform this in your opinion?
John,
The Bravo I is a great prop but this Pro Max will out shine it. Looking forward to getting the Pro Max in the market.
Thanks,
Scott
Hi,
Congratulations with a great prop!
I have a 25 feet 30 years old Phantom offhore hull with a Verado 350 sci. Weight is approx 2,850 lbs. Best prop has been a Rev4 25 pitch prop spinning 6,500 rpms at 81-82 mph. Gears 1:1,75. I have tried Bravo 26 prop but lost 4-5 mph despite being able to jack the engine higher. Not enough bowlift. I got 78-79 mph at 6,400-6,500 rpms with a A45 Tempest 25, and 77-78 mph at 6,500 with a labbed Mirage Plus 25. The latter lost bite quickly.
So Rev4 25 is the best prop per now, but it loose bite when I jack it up. And I have at least 1 inch more to go before loosing waterpressure. I am now 30 psi.
Do you think the Prom Max prop could be the trick being able to be jacked higher and still keep the bow up?
Have a great day and thanks for your service and amazing products :)
Cheeers, Toffen
Hi Toffen,
Wow. What a set up! It sounds like you’re benefitting from the Rev 4′s. The enhanced cup wrapped around the blade tips is providing incredible speeds. The Bravo I’s cup falls off at the maximum diameter. That is why it is not staying hooked up and thus scrubbing speed. I can’t say for sure, but I suspect the Pro Max will be a top performer given its blade shape and large blade cup. The only question I would have is regarding the barrel or exhaust tube. The Rev 4 has a large barrel which is lifting the stern of your boat. The Pro Max barrel a smaller, similar in size to the Trophy. The Pro Max, with its larger 14.50” diameter, will create more bow lift than the Trophy. I hope you can get your hands on the Pro Max and try it out.
Enjoy,
Scott
I have a new Bullet 21SS and have a new 250 Pro XS coming in a few weeks that will have the new Gen 2 Torque Master gear case. I was told the Bravo 29 would have been great chooce if I had the old style Torque Master but with the new Gen 2 version no one can really tell me much. I have also been told the Gen 2 version will need a smaller prop vs. the old model. Any insight on this new prop with the new Gen 2 lower unit on a Bullet 21 SS?
Gary,
Awesome set up. We will be sending some Pro Max props to Bullet for testing with the Mercury rep. It will be compared to the Bravo I XS on the new gearcase. Looking forward to the results.
Enjoy.
Scott
I have an Allison Grand Sport with a 225 proMax turning a 25 trophy pluss 7400rpm ,1.87 gears, Low Water pick ups to 89mph at 1/4 below. I can run larger diameter props up to 3/4 above. What pitch at what engine hight would you recommend for good hole shot and mid range to WOT. Will the new PM prop be a surfacing prop or semi surface? Will pitch be odd and even or just every other pitch. Also whats the dia? Thanks looks sweet!
James,
The Pro Max is designed for a variety of performance applications. It’s a surfacing prop when used with the Sport Master gearcase on lighter hulls with natural lift. It also performs well with Torque Master, Torque Master II and Verado gearcases in semi-surfacing applications. The 14.50″ diameter is a little larger than the Trophy, and thus fine tuning the engine height will be needed to dial it in for maximum performance. The goal is pitch for pitch, but we won’t know for sure until we get them out in the market.
Thanks,
Scott
I’m currently running a Stratos 294 Evo with 200 Yamaha HPDI. I’m currently turning a 27p T1 running 72.4 mph @ 5650rpms, set 2 inches below the pad. I have better than average hole shot and feel like this prop performs fairly well on my boat, but like everyone else, I always want to up numbers if I can. I haven’t read anything about how the Pro Max compares to the T1′s, so what would you expect/guess it would perform compared to what I’m seeing now?
Thanks man
Hi Chris,
Good question. We haven’t had an opportunity to test the Pro Max with your engine. We sure would like to see a comparison between the two. Let us know if you get to it before we do. We’ll share your results here.
Thanks,
Scott
I have an Allison xb21 bassport pro, single console, with 300xs 1.62 gears on a cmc jack plate. I have run 28 pro et in pro and labbed finish, with marginal results. I am currently running a 15×28 3 blade performance overhub, as well as 3 blade mazco re 14 1/2 28 and 30. The 30 is too tall for a full fishing load, but runs 94.2 with me and a light load. I would like to return to Mercury, and I hope this Pro Max prop will do it. Any idea on pitch for me? The above props run 6200 wot. jack plate all the way up. Thanks
Tory,
We’d like to see you back in our camp. Three blade props, by design, enhance bow lift. The four-blade Pro Max will lift both the stern and the bow. I’m hopeful the high blade rake and trailing edge cup will provide the bow lift you need. As for pitch, the Pro Max picks up 100 RPM over the 28″ Pro ET (Pro Finished – polished version), so you might be able to run the 29″ pitch.
Thanks,
Scott
Hi,
Thanks so much. Just forget to say we have shortened the tube with 30 mm. I gained 1-1,5 mph on doing this. Very happy with the Rev4 :)
Will try to get hold of a Pro Max 26 prop. Whats the difference between a lab and pro version?
All the best, Toffen
I am the original and only owner of a “classic” 1977 Sleek-Craft 20′ modified tunnel, and I have a 1999 Merc Pro Max 225 (with the Sportmaster gear case) on a Stainless Marine hydraulic transom jack (and about 10″-11″ of set-back). This sounds like a very promising prop for my hull and engine combination. Would you agree? Note: My only prop at this time is a 20″ four blade non-Mercury modified prop that is good only for towing watersports….so I have no real “baseline” as to how fast this boat can really go with the Pro Max on the back (but I would think at least 80+ mph). With my old 1977 175 Mercury “Black Max” on this boat, however, I could run about 69-70 mph with a 14″ x 26″ modified three blade chopper prop (which I no longer own). I can run almost that fast now with the 225 Pro Max and the referenced 20″ ski-prop….but as you might expect, the engine is “against the red line limiter” at wide-open throttle (around 6700+ rpm). Comments? Thanks!
Bill,
Cool boat. Keep your low pitch prop for the water sports activities. If you are looking for a high speed prop, the Pro Max would be a good choice. It’s hard to say for sure what pitch to run but the numbers point toward a 25″ or 26″. As with all props, you won’t know until you try it.
Enjoy your boat,
Scott
Have you ran the pro max on any Nitros yet? I have a Nitro Z8 DC with 250 pro xs (no torque master). I have a 26 pitch fury prop and am about 3 1/4″ below and 10″ jack plate. I get anywhere from 68-73 MPH at 5800-5900 RPM depending upton the conditions. What are your thoughts? Will the pro max improve my top end speed? 26 pitch or 27 pitch? Thanks!
Hi Jeff,
I wish we did but not yet. We’ll have to wait until May when the 25″ and 26″ pitch models are available. The Fury is a good prop for your setup; especially with light loads. The Pro Max will be interesting. I’m looking forward to seeing how they perform on the Nitros. I’m thinking it will be pitch for pitch with the Fury. Tim will tell.
Thanks,
Scott
Scott,
What would be the difference in performance between Pro Finish and Lab Finish? I understand that the Pro Finish is better suited for heavier boats. In terms of a Pad vee single outboard, what weight and what set up will determine which type of finish is suitable? In terms of mid range and top end when comparing Lab variant to Pro variant.
Thanks.
Joe,
The Pro Finish Pro Max leading edges are wedged (not as sharp as a Lab). The blades are thicker and more durable than the Lab Finish. The Pro Finish is polished or shiny compared to a satin or dull Lab Finish. Pitch for pitch, the Lab will produce 150 rpm over the same pitch size as the Pro Finish version. The Lab Finish Pro Max blades are thinner with sharp leading edges designed for maximum efficiency. Lab Finishing is really more for racing or if you’re looking for bragging rights with the extra 1.5 mph. For the best overall performance, my money is on the Pro Finish version.
Thanks,
Scott
Thanks.
In terms of mid range, should the Lab finish out perform the pro finish? (pitch for pitch)
Joe,
Pitch for pitch, the Lab Finished Pro Max will accelerate faster in the mid range and the Pro Finished Pro Max will provide better fuel economy at mid range.
Scott
Tried to buy a 32″ Pro or Lab finish today… could not due to being unavailable, please keep us updated when these are ready to be purchased. Should be interesting to see how this prop compares and what kind of slip numbers it produces…
Capt. Adam,
Pro Max production begins next month. We’ll start with 25-28 inch pitch models and follow-up with the remaining pitch range toward the end of May.
We’ll keep you guys posted as they become available.
Thanks,
Scott
Sign me up I’ll take a 30 or a 32 depending on how stiff they are.
Ready to see how this will run on my Stroker hull, 300, currently at 16in total of hydraulic jack plus hydrotech adjustable setback, +2.5 above the pad. Built bravo 1′s & lightening ET’s run great on these boats and are the main choice for these boats. I am very Anxious to see how this pro max prop runs. How are the blades going to hold up at + engine heights?
I’m just as anxious as you. Hope to see the 30′s mid May and 32′s in late May. The blades should be good. The X7 alloy helps with that.
Have a 2008 21 ft checkmate pulsare open bow with 250 vmax 3.1. 14.5 inch set back running at even to 1 inch below the pad. Worked 30 bravo 1 at 5600-5700 rpm is 81.3. Worked 28 bravo 1 is 5800 at 80. 29 T1 from Yamaha is 5900 rpm at 83. All speeds are GPS and every day speeds not the fastest speeds this props have gone. What pitch would you recommend ?
Don,
Shoot for a 29″ pitch Pro Finish Pro Max. It’s hard not knowing what work was done to the 28″ and 30″.
Scott
Scott,
Will this prop be more reliable in regards to blades throwing then the ET?
Terry,
Yes. The Pro Max should be more durable as the leverage point has shortened. That, coupled with stout blades, results with improved prop life when compared to the ET.
Scott
Scott, Will the 1 pitch increments in the Pro finish result in the Odd pitches (25,27-29) having the same pitch as the even increment pitches (24,26,28) but with more cupping?
Joe,
Great question and thanks for asking it. Pitch is measured from the leading edge to the trailing edge. At Mercury, we factor the cup height into the overall pitch. Pro Max props are cast in 2″ pitch increments; 24″, 26″, 28″, 30″ and 32″. We are able to offer odd pitch sizes by removing some of the excess blade cup height. Every 1″change in results in as 150 RPM change in engine speed. The Pro Max is a very cool prop.
Thanks,
Scott
Thanks. So which will have more cupping hence slightly more bow lift, the odd or even pitches? I ask as when testing with previous Tempest props on my boat, comparing a 25,26 and 27, the 27 is fastest overall, followed by the 25, then slowest; the 26. So It seems that the boat likes the odd Tempest pitches better.
Hi Joe. Scott is out of the office this week. he will reply to your question at his earliest convenience upon his return next week.
Rick
If I read this correctly the even pitch props will have more cup out of the box than odd?
Correct
Allison XB 21 Bassport pro with a SHO 250 1.75 gear stock lower unit. I have not ran the boat yet. What would be your suggestion on pitch with a Promax in the pro finish? I have a Bravo 1 XS 26 that I will run when the ice goes out. How will this prop run on this boat? what pitch would you start with? I have not ran it yet so I have no numbers to go by. People are telling me 29 pitch.
Thanks.
Kevin,
The Pro Max should be great for the Allison XB 21. I would lean toward the 29″ pitch Pro Max (Pro Finish). With 1.75 gears, 6 to 7% slip, 5850 to 6000 RPM, I’m guessing you hit 86 to 88 mph.
Here’s to the ice going out.
Scott
Scott
Thank you for that information. Do you know for sure when the 29 Pro Max will be available?
I need one ASAP.
Kevin,
I wish I could give you a confirmed date. I would like to see you get one ASAP. Unfortunately, we are behind schedule by four weeks. The 29″ is now slated for June production. I apologize for the delay.
Scott
Im running a basscat cougar with a 250 pro xs with a 27 trophey top end is good 5850 at 82 plus
but hole shot is poor at best . what size pro max should i get
Scott,
The 27″ Trophy is a little tall in pitch. Go with the 28″ Pro Max (Pro Finish). The Pro Max will offer better planing and it looks like you can expect to gain 1.5 mph (maybe 2).
Thanks,
Scott
I have a scb stingray what pitch did you guys try on it when is the projected
available date
Fred,
What are you running for power and what prop are you using? Can you supply pitch, style, engine RPM and speed at wide open throttle?
Thanks,
Scott
250 XS. Just tried 24ot4 turbo. 5800 rpm. still in breakin. Bow sat on the water. Could not get it to lift.
Hello Fred. Scott is out of the office this week. He will reply to your message upon his return next week.
Rick
Scott,
I currently run a Stratos 201 XLE with e-tec 250 HO.
I am running a 26p Trophy Plus at 3″ below pad.
I can get 5800 RPMs and 69 mph with a full load and two people.
I get average hole shot and am looking for something better in this category.
Do you think the Pro Max will help my set up with hole shot and maybe even squeeze out a couple more MPH on the top end?
If so, what pitch would be best if I currently run the 26p Trophy Plus?
Jerry,
Run pitch for pitch, so a 26″ pitch Pro Max. Planing will improve and expect to see a 1 to 2 mph increase in top-end speed.
Thanks,
Scott
Have you run these on any 150 HP’s yet??
I have a Bass Cat Sabre with a XR-6 turning a 24 Fury to the limiter (5750) and a 25 Tempest keeps me down to 5550 and both running around 67 mph gps (68.6mph being the best). I am hoping that the Pro Max 24 will get me back to just below the limiter and a couple mph….What do you think?
Darren,
Yes. We have run the Pro Max on the new 150 four-stroke and worked fantastic. The Fury is a fast prop, especially with a light load. It will be a challenge to beat it unless you can turn a 25″ Pro Max to match the RPM you get with the 24″ Fury. The 14″ diameter Fury likes to run deeper in the water compared to the 14 5/8″ diameter Tempest and the new 14 3/4″ Pro Max. If you could increase engine height, without any loss in boat control and water pressure, you might be able to keep the RPM up with the 25″ Pro Max.
Thanks,
Scott
I have paramount 21 center console
I run 25 tempest plus
My engine is 200hp blackmax carb
Speed 62mph
Rpm 6200rpm
What is the defrant between ithe new promax with the tempest plus
Thanx
Seadooq8,
Looking at your numbers, it appears you’re slip number is 21% – which is high. The prop slip on a boat like yours should be closer to 12%. Your engine RPM also seems high, by 300 – 400 RPM. Has the prop been damaged and repaired which might account for the higher RPM and lower speeds? It’s hard to say how the Pro Max would work on you rig. The 3 blade Tempest might offer the best top-end speed for your style of boat. The Bravo I XS, which delivers bow lift, might be the better four blade for running in rough seas. That being said, it will also be two mph slower than the Tempest. Before I recommend a pitch for the Bravo I XS can you clarify why you are getting 21% slip?
Thanks,
Scott
I have a 115 Pro XS and run a Laser II prop. This works very well, but I’m always looking for something to give an extra mile or two. I read that the Pro Max is rated for 115 – 300 HP.
Will this fantastic prop realy fit my engine?
Hello Rupert:
Scott is out of the office this week. He will reply to your message upon his return next week.
Rick
Scott; I’m running a new Pro XS 250 with the new Gen 2 Torque Master gearcase. I was running a Pro XS 250 with old Torque Master. I have always ran 26 Tempest Plus worked with 25 inch engine height. Never had cavitation problems with that setup. Was running 72-73 with tournament load. Now I’m running 68.8. Now with plate all the way down, can’t keep it from cavitating. Mercury says Gen 2 should be 1-2 mph faster but I’ve lost 4 mph. Does this lower unit just not like the Tempest prop? I’ve tried all heights from all the way down to 25 inch high. Still turns 5900 with Gen 2 as did the other lower.
Do you think the Pro Max prop will get my mph back? That’s a big mph drop just from a lower. I’m sick I ever bought this thing. Triton X2 21 1.75:1
Thanks for advice, Jimmy
Hello Jimmy:
Scott is out of the office this week. He will reply to your message upon his return next week.
Rick
Hi Scott,
I have a Triton TR-22 2005 with a 2005 Mercury Pro Max 300X and a 26 Fury (no work done on prop). This setup runs 82-83 mph at 6800 RPM and works great all the way. I’d like to run the motor a bit lower in RPM. Is a Pro Max 27 Pro Finish a good choice for me?
Hi Moe:
Scott is out of the office this week. He will reply to your message upon his return next week.
Rick
Don’t forget me :).
Hi Moe,
No we didn’t forget about you. It’s that time of the year so we’ll be full throttle until October. The Fury runs tall in pitch so you’re right to go with the 27″ pitch Pro Max.
Thanks,
Scott
Hi Scott, I have a Hydrostream voyager with a PM300 and a 1:62 sportmaster. I run 100 mph with a 28 lightning ET lab at 6400 rpm. Would a 28 Pro Max Lab be a good choice, also what do you think the speed and rpm would be, will it bog the engine out of the hole without any exhaust holes? I was thinking of buying a 4 blade pro et lab but now I see this new prop and wondering which one would be the best choice. Thanks
Gary,
The Lightning E.T. will probably be your fastest prop when compared to the Pro E.T. and Pro Max. If you decide to use the Lightning E.T. as your top-end speed prop, I would go with the Pro Max as your go fast fun prop. The number and size of exhaust vent holes are dependent on the design of the prop. The Pro Max has a small diameter exhaust barrel. Exhaust, flowing over the exhaust barrel at start up, provides the venting needed for an exceptional planing performance.
Scott
Majek 22 extreme with 250 SHO running a 25p rev 4 now hitting high 60s at 5800 rpm but horrible hole shot what you think?
Teren,
Preliminary data shows this prop will well on your set up. Our prop testing has been limited with Mercury outboards (two and four stroke) along with an assortment of hulls. Running a Pro Finished 25″ pitch Pro Max may increase your rpm to 5850 to 5900. A 26” pitch would drop rpm (5750 to 5700) It all depends if you can make some engine height adjustments. I’m looking forward to getting this prop out there. The proof is not in the pudding but in the water.
Scott
I have a 2013 Bass cat Courgar with the 250 Pro xs sport master, came with 25 tempest plus running 71-73 at 5750rpms . Tempest likes to run 3.5 below pad which pitch Pro Max would you recommend . Thanks Mike
Mike,
The Pro Max is designed to run at your level or higher with a Sport Master gearcase. However, just because we can raise the engine/prop shaft doesn’t mean it will enhance performance. Boat designs vary and all have limitations. We have to be careful with the height of our engines. If an engine is elevated too high, the stern can lift at high speeds resulting in gearcase blowout. You lose all control and the boat can turn violently with no warning (hard on the ribs). The only way to know if a prop is right for your boat is to test. Run the Pro Max at you current height for a bench mark, then raise the engine 1/4″ at a time and test again. Run pitch for pitch.
Scott
I run a 27″ trophy on a Tr21 with a 225 efi. I just threw a blade on the trophy and was wondering what size pro max I’d need and what hub kit they take. The trophy was made from the X7 alloy and was faster than my older trophy.stric
Dwight,
The 27″ Pro Max will offer a little more rpm and the 28″ will drop the rpm. The 27″ Trophy falls in-between because it’s more like a 27.5″ pitch.
Scott
My question now is will the 27″ be enough. The lady that I placed the order with said the 28″ would probably be too much now your saying I may need the 28″.
Dwight,
It depends on where you want to be for RPM at WOT. What did you get for RPM and GPS speed running the 27 Trophy?
Scott
I turn 5750-5800 at 77-78 mph in cold weather by myself with 1/2 tank of gas and water in passenger live well.
Dwight,
I haven’t run the Trophy and Pro Max back to back. I’m thinking, in the cold, the 27″ Pro Max should hit 5800 to 5900 rpm. If you get that with the 27″ pitch, then the 28″ pitch might be a little too stiff, especially in warmer summer weather.
Scott
My question is what will the Pro Max give me that the Trophy isn’t? I’m fixing to get a Bobs hydraulic 8in jack plate… Will this help or hurt? Will I be able to run higher and not worry about slinging a blade? Right now I’m running at 2.5 below the pad. Will the Pro Max have pvs holes drilled? Will the Pro Max be a larger diameter prop then the Trophy? How about the hub size, will there be a need for a blow out ring? Finally, do you suggest the Pro Max for my setup?
Phillip,
Looking at box stock props, the Trophy is a good but the Pro Max should offer better overall performance and durability. The 8″ jack plate might offer a little better performance when you marry with the right prop. I think the Pro Max, with its tremendous cup wrapped around the blade tips, will give you what you’re looking for with the set back. The Trophy is 13.75″ in diameter. The Pro Max is 14.75″. The props share the same hub size. The Pro Max doesn’t have vent holes nor does it need them. There’s enough exhaust venting over the small hub. The plastic blow out ring fitted over the front of the Trophy would hurt the Pro Max’s planing performance. I think the Pro Max would be a fun prop for your set up.
Scott
I asked a question, with lengthy info, last night and its not here now. Did it get deleated?
Hi Phillip. We received your message. Scott just returned to the office after being out all last week. He is catching up and will respond to your questions as soon as he can.
Rick
Why is the prop listed in two diameters 14 3/4″ and 14 1/2″ and it’s a thru hub exhaust with no vents correct.
Dwight,
Thanks for calling out the diameter. We made a printing error. We’re updating our sales and marketing materials with the true diameter which is 14.75,” not 14.50″.
Scott
Scott, is there any differences in the amount of cup between pitches? Wasn’t that a difference on the BravoXS, odd pitches had more cup than even?
Adam,
The Pro Max propeller design is different than the Bravo I XS; that difference works its way into the cup. The Pro Max odd pitch has less cup than the even pitch; with the Bravo I XS it’s the opposite. The even pitch models have less cup than the odd.
Scott
Hello. I have a Cougar MTR 22 w/300XS engine. My fastest prop was a stock Pro ET 28 at 94 mph. For an over all prop, it’s not a good choice. Presently I have the Bravo I XS in pitches 26,2 8, and 30 which I purchased last season because the 28 RPM was very close to the limiter (6200-6300). The problem is the 30p holds the rpm down to maybe 3000 until the hull pops up on plane which takes almost 45 seconds. Need your suggestions on how this new prop compares to the XS?
Thanks.
Larry,
The Pro Max will deliver comparable top-end performance (or better) as the Pro ET. The over-the-hub exhaust on the Pro ET hampers hole shot. The Pro Max, with it’s through hub exhaust, cures that issue. Back to you high pitch Bravo I XS. For your application, you may need an additional four holes machined into the exhaust barrel for enhanced venting. Dependent on application, the higher pitch props need additional venting.
Scott
Scott,
I have a 21 foot Blazer with a 300X Pro Max and 1:75:1 Sport Master gearcase. I am running a 26 Bravo I XS. Would the Pro Max prop be a better prop to run? Can get mid 80′s with the Bravo I XS. The Bravo has great bow lift with a load. Will the Pro Max prop have the same lift and top end speed as the Bravo or will it be better or worse? I have also ran choppers with additional cupping from a local propeller guy, with some success. The choppers seem to suffer with a load vs the Bravo I XS. What do you suggest?
Jared,
The Bravo I XS is an awesome load carrying prop. Depending on how loaded the boat is, it might be the better of the two. To run the Pro Max, you would have to step down to the 25″ pitch to achieve similar RPM as the 26″ pitch Bravo I XS. To be honest it’s too close to call.
Scott
I have a Bullet 20XD and I’m re-powering with a new 250XS Sport 1.62. Old engine was a 225x and I was running a 26P at 6700-6800 RPM. Going from the 2.5L 225 to the 3.0L 250 doesn’t give me any current knowledge on the right setup. That said, which Pro Max prop would you recommend based on the 20XD/250XS Sport? Thanks!
Jeff,
You will probably be looking at the 28″ pitch Pro Finished version of the Pro Max.
Scott
How will this prop perform on my new 2013 Ranger Z520c with a Mercury 250 Pro Verado?
What’s happened to the blog. Currently running 26 Tempest. fair hole shot, 73 MPH at 6030 rpms
Richard,
We haven’t tested the Pro Max with the Verado yet, but we’re certainly looking forward to it. Typically, your rig would either use the Mercury Lab Finished Bravo I or the new Bravo I FS. The four blade Bravo offers great hole shot and stern lift, enhancing overall performance. I plan to test the Pro Max with an authorized dealer and customer to compare Pro Max with the Bravo I. The Mercury dealer would have to contact me to get approval for the test. The customer would be required to purchase the Pro Max from the dealer. If the prop doesn’t work, out the dealer would send the undamaged prop back to me at Mercury Racing for credit. Once we get results, we can post the information so others get an understanding regarding the performance difference between the two.
Scott
I have a Gambler 206 with a 2000 Pro Max 2.5 225. I just bought the boat and it’s not getting the kinds of speeds it should get. It has a 25 Tempest on it now and it jumping out of the hole like a raped ape, but I can only get 71 MPH @ 5,950 Rpm. From my understanding this is a 6,500 Rpm motor. I was about to buy a 26 Fury until I came across this article. Please let me know what you think! … I have a need for Speed!
Eric,
Please provide the style of gearcase you have as well as gear ratio. Also, I’ll need you to measure the distance from the center of prop shaft to the bottom of the boat. Is 71 MPH on GPS? Can you let me know what the condition the prop is in (has it been repaired or modified)?
Scott
I have a 2011 sterling bass boat made by gambler and I have a mercury 250pro-xs, and a 29 bravo xs , turn right at 5980 to 6000 rpm, speed 80.7 gps , will the 28 or 30 pro max run faster top end and still get out of the hole as good a the 29 bravo xs. thanks jr britt
JR,
The 28″ pitch Pro Max should provide similar RPM as the 29″ Bravo I XS. The hole shot should be very comparable to the XS. You can expect to gain 2-3 mph in top-end speed with the Pro Max. I’m looking forward to getting the Pro Max out there. We expect to ship the 27″ and 28″ pitch models by the end of May.
Scott
if i were to order a lab finished pro-max should i go with the 30pitch lab????
an would it pick up anymore top end speed compared to the 28 pro-finish prop??
JR,
The difference between a Pro Finished 28″ Pro Max and a Lab Finished Pro Max will be approximately 200 rpm. If moving up to a 30″ Lab, expect to drop 100 rpm from the Pro 28″ pitch. It could be more or less depending on the slip. Slip will increase; if it’s 2 to 3% – no issues.
Scott
Did the props ship on the 29th
Dwight,
I wish I could report that they did. We are running four weeks behind. I now expect to ship the 27″ and 28″ pitch models at the end of May.
Scott
hey scott my ranger z21 wot 5500 rpms 67mph 26 pitch fury with a atlas jackplate would the 1xs help me and what pitch should i go with thanks
Randy,
What engine are you running and is this a heavy load for you?
Scott
Run a legend LE21 with a 225 ProXS set at 3.5 ‘ below pad with a 10 jackplate and a 24 Pitch Fury prop. With 3/4 fuel and a trounament load and me at 2150 ft. Elevation it runs 5700 rmp’s @ 70MPH with a 2 to 2.5 second holeshot.
Lookoing for another prop…What size Pro-Max would I need and what could I expect from it for performance?
Thanks,
Fred
Fred,
The Fury’s run tall in pitch so plan on a 25″ pitch Pro Max to achieve similar rpm. Your set up has a very low propeller slip percentage which means you’re reaching peak performance. The only way you could enhance performance is if you could increase your rpm while staying hooked up. The Pro Max is designed to run higher than the Fury so if you could increase engine height without affecting water pressure you may gain 1 – 2 mph. For maximum performance, you will want to raise your engine height 1/2″ to 3/4″ when switching from the Fury to the 4 blade Pro Max.
Scott
I have a ranger 620 with a 250 etec I have a new slp gear case. I tried out a bravo 1xs 24p 64.9 gps 6100/6200 rpms. 2 guys 1/2 tank of gas and the live wells 1/2 full. I am going to try out a 25p bravo 1 xs. to see if i can get the rpms down. Have you tried out the pro max on these yet ? Should i stay with the bravo or run a pro max? and what pitch pro max would work.
Dan,
The 25″ pitch Bravo I XS will probably be the choice of prop for your rig. Expect to drop 150 rpm from the 24″ pitch. The Pro Max may surprise us but I’m thinking it will work better on bass and flats rigs where the Bravo I XS will carry the 620 better. Hey, you never know until you try it…
Scott
Thanks for getting back to me I will let you know how it goes.
250 proxs and it is loaded for tournaments
Randy,
The Bravo I XS will help carry a full tournament load better than the Fury. I’d recommend the 27″ pitch BI XS which will give you a great hole shot and offer a little more rpm (probably 150) at the top. You would typically move up 2″ of pitch to equal the same rpm as the Fury. With most other props it’s just 1″, but the Fury is tall in pitch. The BI XS likes to run higher than the Fury, so consider bumping up your jack plate 1/4″ at a time until you find the sweet spot (make sure you have good water pressure).
Scott
thank you for the info i will be ordering one very soon
Scott,
When will the lab finished models be available?
Joe,
We will start shipping the Lab Finished 27″ and 28″ pitch the end of May.
Scott
Scott,
Since the Pro Max is made of X7 alloy. What’s the weight comparison, apples vs. apples, 28p vs. 28p SS?
When will the 26″ pitch ship out?
Lee,
We are running behind with the Pro Max. The 27″ & 28″ will ship end of May. For the 25″ & 26″ models, were looking at a June 24 ship date.
Scott
I have a Checkmate Pulsuare 21 BR with 250XS torque master 12″ set back. currently running stock 26 Trophy plus 78 MPH @ 5800-5900RPM. Would this prop be a good pick for my boat. I was thinking of getting my Trophy worked to add more cupp since this boat needs all the bow lift it can get. If i did go with the Promax would it be pitch for pitch?
Kevin,
Your current set up is running good. If you add cup to the Trophy, expect to drop some rpm which could drop your speed by 1 to 2 mph. If your interested in the Pro Max, go with the 26″ pitch. Run the engine at the current height to get a bench mark. To find the sweet spot, you might consider raising the engine in .25″ increments; not to exceed .75″. Be sure you have good water pressure and boat control. The 26″ Pro Max has a ton of cup which will enhance bow lift.
Scott
What exactly is the performance benifits of getting a lab finished one?
Phillip,
The Lab Finished is typically used for racing or flat out top speed with a light load. Comparing the Lab to the Pro Finish, the Lab’s leading edge is much sharper, blades are thinner and the cup height is lower. All of this work results with an increase in engine speed by 300 rpm. The gain in rpm can offer 2.5 to 3 mph with the right set up.
Scott