Prop Question for Sea Ranger 17

[Slowelds]

Hello Everyone.  A little less than a year ago I purchased a 1992 Sea Ranger 17 and I love it!  This forum has been such a help so huge thanks to everyone who contributes. 

I've read many of the threads on different props guys have tried with fantastic results.  I could definitely use an upgrade to my stock Black Max 13x19 prop on the 2010 90HP Merc 4-stroke (2.33:1 gear ratio).

I run the boat primarily in the ocean and don't really care too much about top speed.  Lower plane speeds and fuel efficiency are much more important to me.  (Out of hole would also be nice but not as important)

There are so many variables, I am not really sure where to begin. 

I did some testing with 3 men(670ish lbs) plus fuel and gear on board.  Here is the fuel burn according to VesselView and speed as best as I can remember

4650 rpm 7.2gph 28ish MPH
4310 rpm 5.9gph 24ish MPH
3830 rpm 4.5gph 22ish MPH

I really appreciate any help from those of you guys who know way more than me about this stuff!
THANKS!!!!

[Tom C]

I recommend a 14" x 15" Yamaha Turbo Pontoon 1 with a Mercury / Quicksilver SSR hub kit.

Propeller part # MAR-14015-PR-D0

Hub kit part # 8M0150152

[Slowelds]

Thanks Tom C!  I will check those out! Is there an advantage of sticking to a 3 blade over a 4 blade?

[Tom C]

There is more to it than the number of blades. For your boat and motor, I do not know for sure a four blade that its better than the Turbo Pontoon 1, though it is possible one exists.

What matters is having a prop with a lot of blade area, and with little or no blade rake, and preferably a larger diameter. All that makes for good stern lift, which Arimas benefit from.

The Turbo Pontoon 1 has huge blades, more total blade area than some four blades.

Also, in the lower pitches, using less blades means each blade tracks in cleaner water; with low pitch four blades that get close to each other, and there efficiency goes down.

[Slowelds]

Great!!! Thank you for this information sir! I appreciate the help!