Ok guys, we jumped out and got a lil airboat. I have questions but first let me post some pics so you can see what we are working with.
The engine is a V6 buick and runs great. The prop is in the above pictures and measures 52". Direct drive. The hull is unknown brand but measures 11' 6" X 6' 6" at the stern with 12" sides. It is probably 52-56 wide at the bow. We just took it out for the first time today and it did great in very skinny water. It didn't like deep water AT ALL. In fact we had a couple close calls because we didn't know what the prop was rated for and didn't want to over do it. We had plenty of engine left to go. Our overall conclusion is that the hull is too shallow for that heavy of an engine. It is very ass heavy and sitting at idle there are only about 3" of hull above the water line at the stern. As you can imagine it is very easy to swamp.
I have several question in regards to the whole setup:
1) What is the RPM rating of that prop? 52 VWL 26. I am going to call the manufacturer (Florida Airboat Propellers) tomorrow.
2) Is this prop appropriate for this boat and engine?
3) If we keep the setup we are certainly considering a different hull. We weigh 190 and 220 lbs. Would a 12' x 7'6" chuck hull work with this engine/weight/direct drive/prop setup?
4) Can you get a reduction made for a buick engine?
Trying to decide if we get a different hull would we be able to make this setup work. If we go with a new hull and then have to put a bigger prop and reduction, and rebuild cage and engine stand, we would be better off starting over.
And if you missed my introduction, we are bowfishermen and duck hunters and need a hull we won't sink when we have to cross deep water briefly, speed doesn't matter but safety does.
Thank you in advance,
Allen
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