2 or 3 blade prop?

[David Pringle]

I have a 1979 hunter 27, with the1 gm Yanmar diesel.It presently has a 2 blade prop on it and I'm wondering if a 3 blade prop would give the boat any more speed. I have no clearance for a folding prop,(rudder) and am not too worried about the drag trade off. My question is this. What is the most optimum prop for this boat...size, picth, etc.

 

[Trevor]

More torque

Hi David -My 1986 C36 is underpowered for a 2 blade prop. However, a 3 blade gives the boat much more torque (downside is prop walk is accentuated). I wouldn't run a 2 blade in my area with high currents, but opted for a 3 blade feathering prop for more speed under sail. If this is no concern, I would definitely consider going with a fixed 3 blade instead of the 2. You'll appreciate the extra power the next time you have to motor into a headwind with chop.Best of luck,Trevor

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Overkill

3-bladed may be overkill for a 27. Call MaxProp in Seattle for their advice. They make folding props and have considerable general knowledge.

 

[Jim Cook]

Absolutely LOVE my 3-blade

I have an O'Day 27 with 13hp Volvo MD7A. When my saildrive "fell off" I replaced it and switched to a 3-blade. It was only $20 more than 2-blade and runs much smoother (more balanced) with more torque.I'll not go back to a 2-blade.Sincerely,Jim Cook"Dream Chaser" O'Day 27