Tell me what prop I need for '89 2001 Nautique? Please

[jeffsv211]

We have a very nice reconditioned 1989 2001 Nautique with a 351ci engine - we are running a std 3 blade prop and would like to convert it over to a 4 blade like our newer 226 and 220. Any suggestions on what you've tried and found out what to use or even what NOT to use.... any advice would be welcomed!

[TRBenj]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

Personally, I would NOT use a 4-blade. The modern 3-blades are the strongest performers. Either Acme 470 or 1442 will wake that boat right up.

[jeffsv211]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

Thanks for your input TR, I will take a look at these. Wasn't sure about a 4 vs 3, bit looking for something with a little more get-up-n-go!

[Chris4x4Gill2]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

whats the main difference between the 470 and 1442?

[TRBenj]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

1442 is 3/4" bigger in diameter (12.5" vs. 13.25") and has a bit less cup (.090" vs. .105").

[Chris4x4Gill2]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

But what does that translate to on the water?

[DanielC]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

In 1989, did Correct Ccraft boats have gear reduction?

[SN89BAMA]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

As far as I know all 89s SN have the 1:23 trans. Mr. Weeks at Acme told me the 1442 would be the best for wakeboarding with about 1000 lbs. of weight. What does that translate to on the water? I would think the 1442 would have a better hole shot.

[Chris4x4Gill2]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

Yes, the 89 had the gear reduction transmission.

What is the top speed/rpm difference between the two? I'd assume that the 1442 with the larger diameter has more torque (holeshot) while the 470 has a higher top speed/ less RPM at cruise. Is this correct?

[TravisFling]

RE: Tell me what prop I need for

The 1989's did have the 1.23 gear reduction trans, however there were a few that didn't. The best way to tell is to look at the engine. If it's parallel to the floor and the trans leaves at an angle, then it's the 1.23, if the engine is cocked back with the trans leaving straight it's the 1:1, if I remember correctly. I have a four blade on mine and I love it, however I have heard that with the new three blades out there, that they're amazing performers as well.

[TRBenj]

Re: RE: Tell me what prop I need for

Yes, the 89 had the gear reduction transmission.

What is the top speed/rpm difference between the two? I'd assume that the 1442 with the larger diameter has more torque (holeshot) while the 470 has a higher top speed/ less RPM at cruise. Is this correct?

The 470 actually turns a few more RPM. They are comparable out of the hole. Ive got a few more hp than the base engine and choose to run the 1442 pretty much full time. The 470 isnt a bad choice if you have the base engine or run weighted. Both are great choices, actually.

[STSCowboy]

My 89 SN2001 has a 4 blade (I think 422 12.5 x 15.5) with a small ding. What’s anyones opinion on this prop?

[MN Ryan]

If you're happy with it, just have it repaired. If you're looking for improvements, tell us what improvements you're after (and then have your 422 repaired and keep it as a spare).

[shag]

I had a lot of experience with 89' ski's. Owning several over the years. Some of the very early ones did not have the 1.23:1, but there was not too many. That hull arguably put down one of the better wakeboard wakes when weighted properly and 1989 was the only year you could get that hull with the 1.23:1. It was a bit steep, but what I can tell you is that once you got used to it, it would boot you! Especially on the double up. I had good experiences with a four blade prop. I can't for the life of me remember what model, but my experience was that is was much smoother, would not 'slip' when i a hard turn under power, and helped significantly when weighted. You will lose some top end MPH so you need to consider that. If you barefoot behind this boat, your top speed will be affected. With the stock 3 blade and 1.23:1, that boat could get 47-49mph with a well cared for motor.The 351 Windsor is a great motor! Cheers and best of luck.

[STSCowboy]

Thanks, I’m going to try to put it in the water for the first time in a week or two so I have no experience with it yet. I’m 57 so I won’t be doing any crazy quintuple flips. I’m more of a water skier but I have a 5 year old daughter to get started in the water. I’m not opposed to a second boat some day since I love tinkering on projects. What’s the best preferred waterski boat from that era?