Change Prop from 2 to 3 blade

[Bob Szymanski]

I'm thinking about changing my 2 blade to a 3 blade. Has anyone done this and is there any speed or handling improvement.Thanks Bob

 

[Tim]

Yeah...

I did it on my '81 H30: marginally better against a headwind or seas; not much difference in flat seas; immediately noticed that boats I used to pass were passing me under sail. Swapped it out for a feathering 3 blade and am much happier.

 

[Nathan Shawl]

2 vs 3 blade

When I bought my Hunter 33 the prop had been changed to a 3 blade Michigan Wheel Sailor. The original owner must have thought it was necessary. I've been fairly satisfied with it, allthough there's quite a bit of prop walk in reverse. From what I've read about prop selection it could use more tip clearace (smaller dia.) but then you'd need a higher percent blade area to get the efficiency back up. I don't recall the exact size now but I could check & get back to you if your interested.

 

[Steve Fredrick]

H30 prop

I owned my 1981 30 for 18 yrs before I got smart, bit the bullet and bought a two-bladed Jensen geared folding prop. The boat is smoother, faster under power, much faster under sail, and I have nearly twice the power in reverse.If you don't believe me, read the Cruising World test article on props. This prop is truly amazing and I cannot say enought good things about it.Steve Fredrick