AUTOPROP ON PASSAGE 42
While my boat is a Passage 42, not a 450mor 460, the size and displacement is similar. I have had the Autoprop for 2 years and love it. I have gained somwhere between 1/2 and 1 knot sailing, depending on wind speed and direction. Maximum motoring speed dropped about .2 knots, but is still good. Manouvering at slow speed is similar or better than with the fixed prop, especially in reverse. I was able to easily turn 180 deg. in a 50 foot wide channel with 20 knot winds blowing. That seems like good manouverablility to me! The first prop Autoprop sent was too small and the wrong pitch, resulting in high engine revs and low speed. They seent another, larger and more expensive prop at no extra charge and an allowance to have the boat pulled and the prop to be replaced. They seem to be a responsible dealer and want good customer relations. I heartily recommend an Autoprop for an of Hunter's larger boats. (I had a Max-Prop on a Vision 32 and prefer the Autoprop). Gerry Frig on "Panda-monium Getaway"
