Propeller for 1978 Evinrude 6804b 6 HP

[rbaevergreen]

I was given a 1978 Evinrude 6804b 6 HP with my Rhodes 19 sailboat. There was no propeller. The instruction manual says one of these (with options 2-4 being listed as accessory options):
1. 3 blade, 8" diameter, 7" pitch
2. 3 blade, 8.25" dia, 5" pitch
3. 2 blade, 8" dia, 7" pitch
4. 2 blade, 8" dia, 7.25" pitch

Solas only has their 2011-083-08P listed as compatible but that's 8.25" diameter and 8" pitch. Michigan Wheel makes one that is closer (8" x 7.25" 3-blade) or I can go OEM (which I'd rather not do). Is the Solas too far off?

 

[sail sfbay]

The lower the pitch makes the engine reach maximum rpm at slower speeds or faster acceleration and less top end speed. Conversely, a higher pitch will deliver greater top speeds, but slower acceleration. This link indicates an aluminum 3 blade 8.25" diameter x 8" pitch RH is the proper propeller.

1978 Evinrude Outboards 6 Propeller Guide - Crowley Marine

 

[rbaevergreen]

So I'm good even if it differs from the instruction manual?

 

[sail sfbay]

Yep......for $150 not a big risk.

 

[rbaevergreen]

The Solas that I'm looking at with the same specs is $57 so an even lower risk. I just wasn't sure if it was bad for the motor.

 

[sail sfbay]

Motor will not care. Only you will, with slower acceleration, albeit you will have higher top end speed. I would not be concerned since you are not going to pull a single skier skier out of the water.