Blog

3-Blade vs. 4-Blade Propellers: Which Is Right for Your Boat? One of the most common questions boat owners ask when shopping for a new propeller is whether they should choose a 3-blade or 4-blade design. While adding another blade may seem like a simple change, it can significantly affect how your boat performs on the water. The best choice depends on how you use your boat, what type of boat you have, and what you want to improve. There isn't a "better" option. Instead, each propeller is designe …

You search for a Mercury part number from an old manual, parts diagram, or the part you just removed from your engine, only to find a completely different number listed as the replacement. The original part may show as superseded, SST, replaced by, or no longer available under that number. That doesn't necessarily mean the part is discontinued. In many cases, Mercury has simply replaced the old part number with a newer OEM part number. Understanding superseded Mercury part numbers can make findi …

A MerCruiser sterndrive combines an inboard engine with an external drive mounted through the boat's transom. The engine stays inside the boat, while the sterndrive transfers that power through the transom and down to the propeller. If you own a MerCruiser, you'll commonly see four drive names: Alpha One, Bravo One, Bravo Two and Bravo Three. They may look similar at first glance, but they aren't interchangeable versions of the same drive. Each was designed around different power levels, propell …

Why You Should Change Your Lower Unit Oil Every Year Changing your engine oil is a maintenance item most boat owners remember. Lower unit oil, however, is often overlooked. The lower unit, also called the gearcase, contains a set of precision gears and bearings that transfer power from the engine to the propeller. Unlike the powerhead, these components are completely dependent on clean gear lube for lubrication and protection. Replacing lower unit oil every year is one of the easiest and most af …

For many anglers, a trolling motor is no longer considered a luxury. It's one of the most useful upgrades you can make to your boat. Whether you're fishing shallow flats, working a shoreline, or trying to stay on a productive spot in windy conditions, a Minn Kota trolling motor can provide better boat control, quieter operation, and a more enjoyable day on the water. But is it worth the investment? For many boat owners, the answer is yes. It's Not About Speed. It's About Control. A common misco …