Just wondering if anybody has ever self installed a bow thruster on a H-380. Would be nice to have when solo. And no, I will not put on one that hangs off the hull.
Bow thruster on a 380?
- Thread starter JBboat
- Start date
I had a Hunter 380 for nine years--probably the best boat I ever had. And I singled handed it a lot traveling from Bellingham to Olympia and back. One of the best things I ever put on that boat was a three blade Max propellor. I sailed faster in all directions. But the best part of that prop was that I could maneuver the boat just about any wheres. I'm serious. I've had other skippers come over and shake my hand after docking at some strange dock. (probably because I didn't hit their boat)
What they didn't know is that you have complete control of your boat because the backing up is as good as going forward in power AND you have very little or no prop walk to deal with.
I don't think you need a bow thruster--just my opinion.
What they didn't know is that you have complete control of your boat because the backing up is as good as going forward in power AND you have very little or no prop walk to deal with.
I don't think you need a bow thruster--just my opinion.
Flex O Fold
Flex o fold is also a very good prop improving sailing speed and great motoring
and when I was in a marina for many years I backed into my slip every day.
Nick
Flex o fold is also a very good prop improving sailing speed and great motoring
and when I was in a marina for many years I backed into my slip every day.
Nick
I have installed ( not by myself) a bowthruster on my 356, and I don't regret it. More info on my website www,valetta.n.nu. In swedish but I hope you can translate it.
/Patrik
/Patrik
Sounds like the Max Prop might be the way to go, I talked to Fred Hutchison at the miami boat show, also have seen where other people have said the same thing. Thanks!
I have a 38 and while a thruster might be nice on some occasions the cost and complexity plus where to install are challenge.
Your last statement on Max Prop is what I chose to do. With a feathering prop performance in sailing, motoring, backing and maneuvering are dramatically improved. I've been totally pleased with Max and they were very helpful in sizing and pitch settings.
What you will find though is that there is no end to the various opinions on which kind of feathering prop to use. Just do a search of the archives and you will see dozens of threads on that subject.
Whichever brand you choose I'm sure you will be happy with how it improves performance.
Your last statement on Max Prop is what I chose to do. With a feathering prop performance in sailing, motoring, backing and maneuvering are dramatically improved. I've been totally pleased with Max and they were very helpful in sizing and pitch settings.
What you will find though is that there is no end to the various opinions on which kind of feathering prop to use. Just do a search of the archives and you will see dozens of threads on that subject.
Whichever brand you choose I'm sure you will be happy with how it improves performance.
Why get rid of prop walk, if you plan on using it can be your best friend. I have a h36 with a two bade (my preference), it will back up great, just gun for a couple of seconds to get flow over rudder. Once you have flow slight rudder changes over come prop walk.
Feathering prop doesn't eliminate walk completely. Just reduces it. And reverse is RIGHT NOW whether it's from a dead stop or whether you are in motion and need a right now stop.
Do a search in the archives. You will find all kinds of postings and evaluations of every kind of prop imaginable.