Hunter Legend 37 with 2 blade prop

[mcfiechter]

We purchased a 1988 Hunter Legend 37. The surveyor indicated the prop is approx 11" in diameter and is undersized. Hunter is recommending a 17x10 2 blade prop.

A prop shop suggested a 3 blade 16X10 should fit the engine and transmission configuration. We understand sailing performance will go down some but acceleration and control may increase when motoring with a 3 blade.

We currently have a vibration at low RPM and hope replacing the shaft and choosing the right propeller will reduce the vibration.

I am interested in thoughts on any advantages or disadvantages of using a 2 vs 3 blade prop?

Thanks,
Mark

 

[Steve Dion]

Go with the prop shop recommendation. If you get the wrong size prop you will end up buying a second one.

There are some other good options too. You may want to consider a Campbell Sailor or one of the feathering props (depending on your budget).

Do a little research about the different options. A three bladed prop will probably help your motoring ability with minor addition to drag when sailing.

http://www.westbynorth.com/

Why do you think you need a new shaft? The prop shop can check out your existing shaft. Who knows what is up with an 11" prop on this boat.

 

[Deadline]

I'm with Steve Dion, the guru of this site. A three-bladed prop will give you better control when docking, especially backing in. That alone is worth the price, not to mention more speed with less RPMs.

 

[Bill1565]

We currently have a vibration at low RPM and hope replacing the shaft and choosing the right propeller will reduce the vibration. Thanks,
Mark

Check your motor mounts and your cutless bearing before spending the money to purchase and install a new shaft.

 

[JohnShannon]

went from a two bladed prop to a three bladed feathering prop motoring is much smoother less vibration and I think maybe my teeth are whiter

 

[sailaway78]

Three blade

Friend of mine has a newer H36. He recently went from a 2 to a 3 blade prop and loves it. His prop was wrong too. Unless your interested in that last half knot/ knot of boat speed, you don't need a feathering or folding prop. Spend the bucks on something more enjoyable/useful.