You probably want a stainless prop of the same pitch as what was on it. No
materr what you do though "baby it" and Max cruise speed" are incompatable
thoughts. Even if you acheive max cruise speed at lower RPM's - the engine
will be working against a bigger load.

-W

"Joe Boater" wrote in message
. ..
Hi all, I'm new to the group. First of several (possibly many) stupid
questions.
Just upgraded from a "toy boat" to a 26 ft cruiser.
1976 Carver Santa Cruz. Volvo Penta 260_A (GM 350 CID engine, VP290 OD. My
aluminum prop is moderatly corroded ans has a significant dind. I'd like
to
replace it.
The engine runs smooth, but considering the 400+ hours on it, I'd like to
baby it a bit, but I'd like to get max cruise speed out of this old slow
boat. I'm no speed racer, I dont care about being quick, "out of the hole"
I
just want the fastest cruise with a slower RPM. The boat weighs about
7-8000
lbs and has HUGE trim tabs. What should I be looking for in a prop.
Thanks in advance for the acvice.
DB