Mercury Bravo Four S Propellers

Mercury Bravo Four S Propellers

Summary: The Mercury Bravo Four S propellers, engineered exclusively for the Bravo Four S forward‑facing drive, utilize a dual contra‑rotating configuration—a four‑blade prop up front and a three‑blade prop behind—to grip undisturbed water and deliver exceptional maneuverability at the low speeds essential for tow sports like wakesurfing and wakeboarding. This matched‑pitch set of five precision‑crafted propeller designs minimizes cavitation—significantly reducing noise and vibration—while generating the thrust needed to propel heavily ballasted boats efficiently for all‑day fun. Integrated seamlessly with Mercury’s SmartCraft digital throttle & shift and Smart Tow systems, the Bravo Four S surf package offers pinpoint speed and wake control at the touch of a button

Design & Engineering

Forward‑Facing, Contra‑Rotating Drive
Mercury’s Bravo Four S drive positions its props forward of the transom, accelerating the flow of water over the strut and effectively “biting” into undisturbed water for superior low‑speed control. By leveraging computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and underwater imaging, Mercury optimized the strut shape and cooling inlet placement to eliminate low‑pressure zones that can cause cavitation 

Drive‑Specific Prop Sets
Five new stainless‑steel propeller sets are engineered specifically for this drive, each tailored to match the contra‑rotating layout and optimize thrust, efficiency and durability under heavy load

Propeller Configuration

Four‑Blade Front, Three‑Blade Rear
The Bravo Four S propellers run in a dual, contra‑rotating layout—with a four‑blade prop up front and a three‑blade prop behind—to virtually eliminate drive‑induced torque and maximize grip in “clean” water.

Matched‑Pitch Sets Only
Each propeller set must be installed in matched‑pitch pairs (e.g., a 21"‑pitch LH front prop with its corresponding RH rear prop) to ensure synchronized rotation, minimize vibration and maintain warranty coverage.

Enhanced Maneuverability

At the heart of the Bravo Four S design is unrivaled low‑speed handling. By gripping undisturbed water ahead of the boat, the contra‑rotating props give drivers razor‑sharp steering response—critical when positioning for wakesurfing takeoff or tight maneuvers on the water. Integrated SmartCraft feedback ensures throttle inputs translate instantly into smooth, predictable boat movement even under heavy ballast.

Cavitation & NVH Reduction

Cavitation—bubbles forming and collapsing on prop blades—can sap thrust and introduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The four‑/three‑blade contrarotating configuration disrupts bubble formation by channeling water evenly across both props, slashing cavitation potential and delivering a whisper‑quiet ride. The result is a smoother, more efficient propulsion system that keeps your crew comfortable all day.

Thrust & Efficiency

Dual props rotating in opposite directions generate the high thrust required to plane heavily loaded surf boats quickly and keep them on plane at wake‑friendly speeds. Users report a noticeable bump in fuel economy and extended ride time thanks to the propellers’ optimized pitch spreads—available in 19.5", 21", 22.5", 24" and 25.5"—and stainless‑steel construction for long‑term performance.

Ideal for Tow Sports

Whether you’re wakesurfing, wakeboarding or waterskiing, the Bravo Four S platform delivers the smooth, paddle‑friendly wake and spot‑on speed control you need. Wakesurfers appreciate the tight boat handling and ballasted wakes, while tow‑sport operators benefit from the rapid pick‑up and steady speeds that keep riders locked in the pocket.

Installation & Maintenance

• Matched‑Pitch Sets Only: Always install front and rear props as matched‑pitch pairs to safeguard performance and warranty.
• MerCathode® Corrosion Protection: Standard on all Bravo drives, MerCathode® fights galvanic corrosion so your props stay in prime condition season after season.
• Shallow‑Water Precautions: Because the forward props sit ahead of the hull, trim carefully in shallow areas to avoid damage—props are the first thing to hit underwater obstructions.

Conclusion

By combining Mercury’s advanced forward‑facing drive engineering, contra‑rotating four‑/three‑blade props, matched‑pitch precision and SmartCraft digital control, the Bravo Four S propellers deliver the ultimate surf system for tow‑sport enthusiasts. Whether you’re teaching a novice wakesurfer or chasing your personal best, this package ensures every ride is smoother, quieter and more efficient. Visit your local Mercury dealer today to explore Bravo Four S prop options and get ready to surf like a pro.