1988 Evenrude Electric Start 15hp Prop Questions

runs perfect, no problems but curious about possibilities of prop change and gains. recently loaded up the boat with a little more weight than normal in my 12ft v hull. i had to have the guy in the front lean over the bow for a few min to get on plain. When it is just me, or someone else with regular weight (full 3gallon tank, rods and 2 batteries in the back) i notice it gets 3/4 on plain and stays there for a few seconds, then it sounds like i switched gears, it levels off and takes off. i can feel it take off. by myself with all equipment i get about 21mph. I am not looking to break any speed records but i feel a prop change would help me in several ways. also, i do not have a Dolphin Tail' ? on it. that rubber thing that bolts on and help me on plain easier. should i look into one of these or changing the prop?

How do i check what i have now? I assume it is labeled somewhere. Where?

With that information, how do i calculate for the best prop size for my needs?

Also, what are the differences between 3 and 4 blade props?

again on the trolling motor, what are the differences on a 50lb thrust

1/4 x 8 is on the prop. Should I get a 9 or 10? Or the dolphin tale?

Please help me out guys.

I think you are propped right. You will never get that motor to wind out if you go with a higher pitch prop. You should move at least one of the batteries to the bow.

check out my build.. you will see that in the back, i have each battery sort of tucked away and out of the way. i have no room to put it in the front, really. that's clean at least. i totally agree with you though. this is why i am debating on redoing the deck a little bit. do you think a dolphin tale attachement would help me if i have to keep it as is?

question about the prop, i would like to know more about the angle and how that changes things for top end and low end torque. i read that someone with an 8 changed to a 9 and now they are going 5mph faster. when that 5mph is 25% of the total speed, makes it seem like a lot.


https://www.tinboats.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=20339&start=45

going back through the post, i have to point out that i no longer have than long shaft motor. so the motor sits perfect and is no bearing on the issue i am having.