Feathering propeller

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rick s

I am considering installing a feathering propeller on my Oceanis 321. If anyone would share their similar experience I would be very grateful. My concerns are performance under sail (how much speed increase to expect vs standard 3 blade fixed), and also performance when motoring and docking. Is reliability an issue? Thanks, Rick S
 
Jan 18, 2004
221
Beneteau 321 Houston
Check the Archives!

Rick, Be sure and check the archives on this site. Much has been written on this subject and there lots and lots differing opinions. I, too, have been obsessing over a new "low Drag" prop, and have done lots of research and gotten lots of opinions. It appears that there are several good props for the 321. It seems to be a matter of how deep your pockets are. The consensus is: Stay with three blade for reduced vibration and better motor performance, all the high end feathering or geared folding props ($2,200 to 3,000) work well. A fellow 321 owner here in Kemah (Galveston Bay) loves Kiwi Prop ($1,100 price is right too). Another alternative is the Campbell Sailer Prop. This is a fixed prop but with a radical blade design that reduces drag when sailing. Should give you about 1/2 to 3/4 knot gain without the complication and expense of folding/feathering options. The quote that I got was about $500 plus installation. Good luck and let us know which way that you go.
 
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Jack

Go with a Max Prop

Rich, If you are thinking of a feathering prop, we have the Max prop on our 411. I can't say how much speed we picked up with it, becuase we had the dealer install it before commissioning. However; it does work, it does feather (I coasted to a stop and dove under the boat to see it first hand) and the best part is your control in reverse. The leading edge of the propeller flips over in reverse, so you have tremendous power and limited prop walk in reverse. It is a bit pricey however. Best of luck, Jack B411
 
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Dragonfly

We like the Max Prop

Rich, Dragonfly came with the Max Pro. It works well. Has good power forward and reverse. Our first boat a First 285 had a different brand of feathering prop...I don't know the brand. It didn't have much power and was difficult to control in reverse. Mark http://home.att.net/~dragonflyb331/
 
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