Propellors

[Bighillwill]

Mfgs missing a good bet

Why don't the manufacturers of small outboards, in the 5 to 20 hp range, offer a better prop selection? As contrasting examples, the 5hp Briggs, or the 9.8 Nissan 4-stroke.

The nub of this question is that one perfectly good power plant can theoretically be used in multiple apps, IMHO, just by switching props. Big diameter low pitch for more weight or displacement, and less speed, like sailboat kicker. Smaller Dia., steeper pitch, for higher speed, less weight, like Jonboat. Same engine, lower end, etc. Most everyone here knows this stuff.

So, Nissan offers four pitch choices, from 6.5 to 8.5, for their 9.8 4-stroke. All same diameter, but that's OK considering how much they like their "splash plate" which limits prop diameter. Pretty good pitch range. Problem is, the price is pushing 2 grand US for this top of the line, gold standard, small motor.

Then theres the Briggs. 500 bucks, more or less. Not top of the line, and half as many horses, but consider: Only one prop choice. Briggs probably spent big bucks to engineer a prop to "meet multiple application standards." It's a compromise, of course. Won't push a small jonboat as fast as it could, and won't push a small sailboat or lake cruiser as economically and quietly as it could.

WHY DON'T THEY OFFER TWO PROP CHOICES?! And why don't the aftermarket guys fill the gap for the less expensive motors?

It's not just Briggs, either. It can't be that expensive to offer two props, can it? California carbs vs. real world carbs must have cost more to engineer and manufacture than two simple props, right?

Surely there's a market for it? Is the mainstream boat motor buying public that ignorant? Oh, sorry, dumb question. Rant over, flame suit on.