What prop for Crestliner 202 RCL?

[Sergeant D]

Just took delivery of a 2002 Crestliner 202 RCL w/a 2002 200 Yamaha HPDI. The dealer included a 19" aluminum prop (Michigan Wheel). We took the boat for a test drive and found that the boat came out of the hole like a rocket but could easily go past the 5500 rpm maximum, if I let it. We finished the test ride at 3000 rpms. The boat had one battery, 20 gals fuel, three men on board. Not equipped with a trolling motor or batteries yet. I told the dealer I wanted a stainless steel prop, preferably from Yamaha. What do you guys recommend? The boat will be used in the bays of the east coast. What top speed can I expect? I plan on running a 36 volt system and the trolling batteries are mounted below the floor between the two consoles. May buy a T-8 later.

[PJM]

Sergeant D


That boat is 20.2 feet long and 1425lb in weight according to the specs. I am not a big fan of Michagan aluminum props on higher horse power motors, so it is had to get a read on the performance of your boat. If you want to buy a Yamaha prop you will have to take a look at the Pro Series. The 200 hpdi is a 2.6 liter block which has good torque but not as good as the 200hp 3.1 liter block so you are not going to be able to push as steep of a prop. I would put all of the gear in the boat and run a 19p Pro series for starters. As a nother suggestion you might want to go to a Mercury dealer and demo some of there stainless steel props. The reason is they have a nice selection and if you don't like the prop anybody can buy for you because of the universal hub. I believe the Pro series is more money and if you try a Mercury prop try a Lazer or a Tempest in a 19p. When you are testing props make note when running wide open how much boat is in the water. It the prop has good bow lift, less boat will be in the water and this will increase your speed. Also check your motor height that also can be a factor.........

[JK]

I took delivery of my boat this year. I run a 200 HP Zmax. I believe I have a Ballistic Stainless prop on the engine, with a 21 or 23 pitch on it. Will check tomorrow to be sure.

If you e-mail me I may have some rigging tips for you. A lot of the things you mentioned, I did this year. E-mail is whisperjet2@home.com.

The boat is great.

Jeff
:)