Propeller

This is the comparison against the 3 blade Yamaha factory prop vs a 4 blade PowerTech prop on a RT27-OB with the Yamaha F300.

Obviously, there's a lot of subjectivity to tests like this. When I tested the 3 blade I had flat seas and I did not have the Lenco Autoglide. When I tested the 4 blade the seas were calm as it was slack high tide, but not flat and I had the Lenco Autoglide. So it's likely that these numbers would improve on absolute flat seas. (The Lenco Autoglide will likely improve fuel efficiency).

Based on what I've seen, I do think this particular PowerTech prop is sized perfect for the R27-OB.

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Personally, I like the PowerTech 4 blade prop as it feels more balanced and smooth. It gives better control and more thrust in reverse. I am able to stay on plane at slower speeds which gives me a wider band of speeds to operate between. I only lost about 3 knots of top end speed (down to 33knots at WOT). The Yamaha F300 hits it max horsepower rating at 5500 RPM, and the PowerTech 4 blade hits WOT at 5600RPM.

If you're looking to save on mpg, I don't think there's enough of a difference here to matter. Review the data closely and compare to your usage. I think the difference amounts more to personal preference.

I'm bought one for the following reasons:

1. I want a spare prop as I will eventually ding the prop I have. (It happens, just a matter of 'when').

2. We often run heavier, and having the extra blade helps with stern lift.

3. The PowerTech 4 blade provides a wider band of operating speeds up on plane at slower speeds.

4. Reverse thrust improvement.

5. Smoother/more balanced feel of the prop.

6. The cushion hub of the PowerTech 4 blade prop is softer/less clunky than that of the Yamaha 3 blade.

7. Better grip at slower speeds, which amounts to more control while slow-boating or when in rougher seas.

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The combination of the 4-blade prop and the Lenco Autoglide, hole-shot is amazing!  Probably as good as it could ever get.  As I drive up to a large wake it's easy to back off the throttle to neutral, bob through the wake, then hammer down and pop back on up plane.  No runway required.

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The Yamaha OEM prop sells for about $670.  The PowerTech Offshore 4 blade Stainless prop was about $580. 

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I bought mine at getaprop.com

15.25" x 15 pitch

CLYX200 (Yamaha Cushion Lok Hub)

Right hand rotation.

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9/2/2021

Last Updated: 9/3/2023