PROP RIGHT

Unlike cars where up to ten forward gears may be fitted, marine engines have to make do with essentially one gear. Admittedly the fluid properties of water can mask small discrepancies in matching the prop to the total hull displacement, but the right prop can make a world of difference to performance and engine longevity.

With larger planing hulls, boat builders normally take a lot of care in prop matching, even if the prop is the standard unit that comes with the engine. This is why for novice boaters, buying a factory set-up boat and motor package will normally ensure some care has been taken in fitting the right prop for average boating conditions.

But if you're re-powering