Filler ring, large hub to small hub propeller

[Diesel Dave]

Over the weekend I was testing different props, I currently run a 23 tempest. I was very impressed with the 25 pitch trophy great top end and 5200 rps, and a better hole shot, midrange and the splash line is back another 2-3 feet. WoW Quick! However, the prop did on occasion blow out in the hole just before reaching plane. My dealer says I could try to run the prop with a filler ring that fills the space between the small hub prop and large hub leg. Question is if this works am I restricting my exhaust to much to do damage to my engine? I am currently running in the the thrid hole, and rooster tail is lower than the top of the cowling. The boat is a 1900 Targa with 200 opti.

Thanks in Advance

[Husky]

Using the exhaust diffuser ring with a small hub trophy should not restrict your exhaust or cause problems. It is done with regularity.
I understand the reasoning behind your question but offer the following situation to help put it in perspective. Using a large tube prop (like your Tempest) on your 200 yeilds full potential for exhaust flow right? Imagine the 3 liter big blocks (225 and 250 hp) use the same size hub you presently have. They do not suffer restriction of exhaust, there is ample area for the ehaust to flow out freely.

In your trying of props don't overlook the Powertech TR04 4blade small hub like the Trophy. Comparison tests by Bass and Walleye Boats of it and the Trophy, show it to be superior in holeshot and mide range acceleration, with almost identical top ends. It also holds the water better and resists blowing out.
Check out the article on the PowerTech home page. Worth looking into.


www.ptprops.com

[jigtugger]

You can also try a vacuum cleaner belt or two to test to see if filling the hub gap helps. I read the idea on some bass boat message board a while back, and thought it was a good idea.