The following news release came to us via Boat U.S. It has some great information on matching the proper propeller to your vessel. The article mentions getting on a plane, proper rpms and fuel economy, one issue I am afraid will be back on everyone’s mind by summer.
One item not covered in this article is carrying tools and a spare prop. Today’s outboard props have pressed in hubs held by a rubber coupling. Over time this coupling will wear out resulting in a “spun prop.” With a spun prop the energy no longer is able to make it to the prop blades as the hub freely spins inside the propeller housing. Depending on the severity of the coupling wear a spun prop may leave you totally dead in the water.
A spare knock off brand aluminum prop can be purchased for less than $100 for most outboards at your local marine supply store. Your current prop should be labeled as far as diameter and pitch. If not they can make a decent match based off of manufacturer and horse power. Since it is just a spare it does not have to match exactly except for the hub matching the lower unit shaft. A prop with a set of channel locks and a spare cotter pin may save the day during an offshore fishing trip or while pulling the kids on a tube in the local creek. Consider carrying along with your other basic tools.
NEWS From BoatU.S.
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
BoatU.S. News Room at http://www.BoatUS.com/news/releases.asp
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
FIVE REASONS TO TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT YOUR BOAT PROPELLER
ALEXANDRIA, Va., Jan. 12, 2009 - Selecting the right propeller for your boat’s motor is sometimes as much art as it is science. That’s because every boater uses their boat in different ways and under different conditions. The January 2009 issue of Seaworthy from BoatU.S. Marine Insurance recently looked at why you may want to take a closer look at your prop this winter and ask yourself these five ques