Currently running on a 14-1/2x19 3 blade Quicksilver. I am going to buy a prop and I have narrowed it down to the Vortex and Apollo versions of the 14x20 of the 4 blade prop. I just need input on why I would want to pay more than double for Stainless over Aluminum? I do know that with the new hub kits, I shouldnt have to worry about damaging my drive if I were to hit something. Is that correct? Am I going to get better control in turns, more speed, ect.?? Any help would be much appreciated!

The best way to describe Al vs SS for me is:

Aluminum is a open wheel differential in a car. The car still moves and functions normally, but you can easily over power that one wheel and slip

Stainless is a limited slip rear end. More power is transferred with less slippage. This creates a more efficient drivetrain all around at any speed.

Of course this all depends on the prop design. You can get a crappy stainless just as easily as you can get a very good aluminum.

3 vs 4 blade? From every documented test I've ever seen that was set with the same boat, same weight, with stop watches and radar guns... 3 bladed props out performed 4 blades in every scenario. The only prop you can slap on a boat that WILL 100% give you better low end performance is the Hi-5.... at a cost of gas and top speed. It's for water sports only. From what I can read the two best all around props on the market are the Mercury Laser 2 and the Volvo Penta SS (3 blade)

Well if you get 5% better economy.... At cruise you might get 9.5gph instead of 10gph with a quality 3 blade SS like the VP.

If that's the case you're getting a savings of around 20 cents per gallon of gas if it's $4 a gallon. It will take around 1500 gallons of gas to recoop the $$, or around 150 hours at cruise for a $300 prop.

Stainless doesn't "shine" on fuel savings, it shines on less wear and tear on equipment. Going from a 3500rpm cruise to a 3200rpm cruise. Now that's worth it.

True, but I even dout that you would go from 3500 to 3200 RPMs. Now forgive, I am not talking Al vs stainless. I mean a normal stainless prop vs a high preformance props.

The best all around prop out there that bolts on is the VP 3 blade SS. It murders the 4 blade in every test. Fast acceleration, good top end.

This is for stingray and results may vary, but it gives you a good idea of what things really do
http://www.stingrayboats.com/products/r ... 03_06.html

Hutch, based on what you just said, I would go with a 4-blade. Either stainless or Al. Depending on your budget.
You will lose a tad (not much) in WOT speed, gain some holeshot, and greatly improve your low speed planing and maneuverability.

Just don't go buying any 4 blade prop thinking it will help. Do a LOT of research on the specific props you are looking at. Many 3 blades out perform 4 blades in holeshot, slow speed cruising. Some 4 blades (Solas) are horrible at everything. I still believe the best prop for your boat is the 3 blade VP SS in factory size.

Even though VP does not make the 3 blade SS prop in "factory size" You would be surprised at who does.

Aluminum is a open wheel differential in a car....Stainless is a limited slip rear end