The 4 blade will make a difference in acceleration but the 3 blade will be
faster on top end. I assume the 17 you found is a performance polished SS
and not just a black SS prop.
You will probably be happy with it until you get a chance to try a good 4
blade.

--
Tony
my boats at http://t.thomas.home.mchsi.com

"Jeff Brown" wrote in message
...
"Jeff Brown" wrote in message
...
Anybody have any experience with the segmented composite props like the
4-blade Pirahana?
Pros and cons from the real world? As always the ads look good.
Most of the use will be for wakeboarding and cruising. I am looking at
an
18P x 4 blade for an '86 20' Chapparal with 305 Alpha 1. Currently using
a
17P alum 3 blade which will over-rev up to ~5100. 19P x 3 blade alum
yeilds
top rev of 3800 and no pull.
Not keen on SS due to cost and potential damage to lower drive if I hit
something in the water.
Thanks in advance.
jbrown


Thanks for the input. The loss of rpm on the 19p is probably due to the
fact that it is a VERY old prop. A very rough beater that was stowed up in
the bilge of the boat when I bought it. It appears to have no cupping and
the exhaust dia. may be constricted as well. I have used a newer 19p prop
with fair results. I have a chance to buy a used 17P ss for a reasonable
$.
Will the 4th blade be that much of an improvement? Sounds like the
composite will have significant flex under the heavy load.
Thanks again for the help.
best regards
jbrown