autoprop feathering ?

[Gerry Hull]

Lots of you seem to have bought the Autoprop. I just put one on my Catalina 42 ACADIA and would appreciate some feedback about what you do about prop rotation when sailing. The manufacterer suggests that the transmission should be put in foward gear. I do this but it loads up the transmission so that the shift lever will not bring it back into neutral. The only way I can get it out of gear is to start the engine and then it is easily shifted per normal. I'm sure if I bring the boat to a total stop and unload the transmission I can shift it but this isn't always practical such as in a busy thoroughfare. Yanmar doesn't like this situation and suggests a shaft brake. I can't find one anywhere. Any experience with this problem ? I'd like to hear from autoprop owners. via planet Cat or by e- mail gerryh@fraserfl.com Thanks

 

[Gene Foraker]

Autoprop

I have one on my new C-36 and although I don't have a lot of experience with it yet, I have no problem when put in reverse. That is just a habit gotten into with my previous c-30 and the standard 2 blade prop. The transmission supplier reccomended reverse.

 

[Ernie A]

Gear-locking should not be a problem with Autoprop

Hi, Gerry--I put an Autoprop on my C-42 this year. While the former fixed-blade prop tended to jam the transmission when locked in forward, I have not noticed this problem with the Autoprop. The reason apparently being that, with the shaft locked in gear, the prop feathers and places little or no torque on the shaft. By design, the Autoprop prop must rotate in order for centrifugal force to develop which in turn produces significant pitch. For this reason, unlike a fixed-blade prop, Autoprop should not be detrimental to the transmission when locked in forward or reverse.BTW: For me, after GPS and Radar, the Autoprop is probably the best upgrade added. Ernie AprilWindCatcher C-42 #618

 

[R. Palaia]

Either neutral or reverse

Went to a Yanmar maintanence seminar and was advised to keep the trans in either neutral or reverse but NEVER forward. Because in forward, the trans gears will turn, but will not be properly lubricated. Free wheeling (neutral) or locked in reverse will save the trans.Roc

 

[Chris Bloor]

MaxProp

Gerry, we have a MaxProp on our C-42 -- same idea, different manufacturer. We also put the transmission in reverse under sail, but only if we're going fast enough that I hear it when I'm down below. With our former fixed prop, the noise was quite loud, and we always put it in reverse as a normal course of turning off the engine and beginning to sail. We've never had problem with either prop getting the transmission back in gear when we're finished sailing. So try reverse and see it that's better for you. Good luck and happy sailing!Chris BloorGreat Escape IIICatalina 42