What does a “test” propeller do?

Joined
Jan 17, 2023
Messages
22
Reaction score
4
Points
3
Age
55
Model
Seafarer
The service manual for my ‘94 Johnson (225, TXERK) calls for use of a test prop for various procedures (such as setting max advance). These are not easy to find and even used ones on eBay are pricey. Can someone explain what a test prop does? Are there alternatives?
 

JJF

Well-Known Member
Joined
Feb 14, 2021
Messages
453
Reaction score
136
Points
43
Location
Gloucester, MA
Model
Canyon 306
My guess is that it somehow recreates/simulates "load".
 

enfish

Well-Known Member
Joined
Oct 17, 2006
Messages
445
Reaction score
75
Points
28
Location
San Marcos, CA
Model
Adventure
JJF is right. They are used to create load on the motor in a test tank without throwing water all over the place.

I don't know what size you would need for your motor, but I found a few on eBay that seem reasonably priced...



 
Last edited:
Joined
Jan 17, 2023
Messages
22
Reaction score
4
Points
3
Age
55
Model
Seafarer
I appreciate the responses but I guess I'm more interested in trying to figure out what to do if I can't get the test propeller the service manual calls for. The OMC P/N is 436080 and none of those listed on ebay are that P/N. That part number, or an alternate, is not listed for sale anywhere as far as I can tell. I hate to just skip the steps where the test prop is called for. Right now, that step is setting the maximum spark advance, where the manual calls for running the motor at 4700 rpm. It also specifically indicates the motor should not be run with a regular propeller.
 

DennisG01

GreatGrady Captain
Joined
Sep 1, 2013
Messages
7,227
Reaction score
1,354
Points
113
Location
Allentown, PA & Friendship, ME
Model
Offshore
Find a calm day and do it out on the water. Start by setting it your "best guess" and then fine tune on the water. You could always stop, make an adjustment, then run it again. Repeat.