1. What is Prop Pitch?

Prop pitch is the theoretical distance (in inches) that a propeller would advance in one revolution. It's a crucial factor in determining your boat's performance characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the prop pitch formula:

Where:

• Pitch — Propeller pitch in inches
• RPM — Engine revolutions per minute
• Time — Duration in minutes
• 1056 — Conversion factor (inches to miles and revolutions to distance)

Explanation: The formula calculates how far the boat would theoretically travel based on prop pitch and engine speed, assuming no slip.

3. Importance of Prop Pitch Calculation

Details: Proper prop pitch selection affects engine performance, fuel efficiency, and top speed. Calculating theoretical distance helps evaluate prop performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter prop pitch in inches, engine RPM, and time in minutes. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between pitch and slip?
A: Pitch is theoretical advance per revolution, while slip is the difference between theoretical and actual distance due to water resistance.

Q2: How does pitch affect boat performance?
A: Lower pitch provides better acceleration but lower top speed. Higher pitch gives higher potential speed but requires more power.

Q3: What is a typical pitch range for outboard props?
A: Most recreational outboard props range from 10-25 inches, depending on boat size and engine power.

Q4: How accurate is the theoretical distance?
A: Actual distance will be less due to slip (typically 10-20% for planing hulls, more for displacement hulls).

Q5: When should I consider changing my prop pitch?
A: If your engine can't reach recommended RPM range at WOT (wide open throttle), or if performance doesn't match expectations.