C' 30 props

[Al Britton]

I have a 1987 Catalina 30 with a Universal M25 diesel. What is the optimum propeller for this boat / engine combo that will yield hull speed without over reving the engine? Fixed or folding and relative benefits to a cruiser who does not wish to be left too far behind whether under power or sail? Where do I get one? What should I expect to pay? What is the down side to this propeller?

 

[Guest]

13 x 14

AL,I have the same year Cat 30. Last year I had the folding Martec replaced with a fixed 2 blade. The prop shop calculated that the 13 x 14 was the best for the engine and boat. I have great power but, I also have a lot of prop walk too. Hull speed(6.8 kts) is tough to obtain even under optuim conditions. I cruise around 2000 to2200 RPM and do 6+/- Kts. Greater RPM 2400-2500 RPM, results in more prop walk and noise with minimual speed gained ~6.2Kts.... Search the archives under "hull speed calc". BTW: a three bladed prop will need less pitch and have less walk....Good luck

 

[Al]

Thank you

Thank you for the advice. Who is the best source of a recommendation for a three bladed prop?