What prop for back-up

[djcoop52]

2019 Impact 1775 115 merc Pro XS. Boat came with a 12.75 X 19P SS spitfire X7 boat runs well within my expectations but not achieving max RPM allowed ( which is confusing in itself because book say max rpm's is 5300 to 6300). WOT I achieved 5500 rpms but jumps on plane and speed is 44 mph when alone 2 guys fully loaded 42.5 mph these numbers are fine with me. My question is I would like to carry a spare prop in case something unforeseen happens while on a trip so I can continue trip with a quick prop change. Not looking to spend the dollars for another SS so what Aluminum prop would be a good backup prop for this boat. Everything I look up just gives a wide range of possibilities and have never figured out who decides what prop goes on a boat , Motor manufacturer, dealer or boat Manufacturer. I figured this would be the best place to ask due to the fact that this forum has a larger wealth of knowledge than anywhere else I can find.

[Stratos219]

I'd go with a 17 pitch aluminum spitfire. it should put you right in the middle of the wot range

[Ches]

I would go with a 19P Spitfire but aluminum. It should act like an 18 or 17P Stainless with the flex.
There is a different post on here that a guy with a 17P SS Spitfire was running 6150 RPM in Colorado, he had a 155 4S. If they offer the Aluminum Spitfire in 18 pitch, that might work too. Make sure you have your engine at the right height. Factory likes to put them a hole or two low. Mercury calls for second hole on my boat but if you ask their prop guys they told me my Tempest should be in 3rd hole and if I got a Bravo 1 FS, it should go in fourth hole. Just something to think about. FYI, I like the spitfire, had one on my last boat.
Ches.

[muskyed]

I would go with a 17" Aluminum spitfire. Reason being, I had a 16 Lund 1775 pro Guide with a Merc 90 4s, and a 17" alum Spitfire. Bought a 17" X7 spitfire and rpm's went up 150, but I also raised engine one hole, to the third hole. With the Spitfire, and staying with the same pitch, you will probably loose a few rpm's by going to the aluminum version, as the blades are thicker.

[Northwoodswalleye]

What height is your motor? You can typically pick up rpm and overall handling by lifting it up. Motors usually come from Lund sitting in the lowest hole. I usually end up 3 or 4 holes up and they run much better there.

[Northwoodswalleye]

Every hole up is about 150rpm

[TomP.]

I used to carry a spare prop but since I use Stainless if I hit something hard enough for the prop not to work more then likely the lower unit is going to be toast. Just my Opinion and experience. I do carry a new hub adapter.

[Ches]

I somewhat agree with TomP.
If I just go on a local trip, I don't carry a spare prop, but if I drive all the way up north, I keep one in my truck. I realize that a SS prop can take a lot, but if I ding it on rocks, I want to change it out till I can get it rebuilt. Might not have too, but it's just me.
Ches.