Folding/Feathering Props

[Steve Lesniak]

I'm considering putting a Max-Prop folding prop on my 19995 Beneteau M510 (50ft). Any experiences? 843 224 2892

 

[Mike]

Autoprop

I know that you'll have to take your best guess at the pitch then either re-haul her or dive to re-pitch it. A buddy had one on his 36CC and was very happy with it once he got it set right but he did have to pull her more than once to do so. Maxprop has a very good reputation with racers for low drag as well.I went with an Autoprop on my 361 and am very happy with it. No need to rehaul or dive on the prop if you get the pitch wrong. Based on the test they have you run after installation it appears to be pitched just right. I run at apx 2600-2750 rpms on a Westerbeke and get apx 7kts out of her. She does walk to port fairly well when backing up but I got used to it and use it to my advantage when docking.

 

[Brian]

No experience --- but

I'm looking for a 16 inch max prop for my B321. Unfortuately the only one I can find used is a 25.5 inch two blade currently on Ebay - maybe it works for you - good luck

 

[Steve]

Max-prop

I bought a 1999 36'cc three years ago which came with a 3 blade Max-prop. The first owner stated that he had to haule it 2 times to get the pitch right. That said I find the prop just great both under sail and power. It is well worth the effort.

 

[b393capt]

Auto-prop, agree with Mike

I have an Autoprop on my Beneteau 393. In addition to increasing my sailing performance, which is probably clear from the design, the benefits motoring are real as well. I have a Yanmar 56hp. Going forward in Idle (800 rpm), I do about 2 knots, 1200 RPM I do 5.5 knots, real quiet like. At 2400 RPM I am doing over 7 knots. Normally I cruise at 1600 rpm, 6+ knots, and enjoy the quite rather then go faster ... I credit the Autoprop to making this possible. When docking she reponds real quick to going in reverse, and has more power than my standard prop. I also get quite prop-walk, which is helpful when docking.

 

[larry w]

Max-Prop

I have a Max-Prop on my Bene 40 and love it. I don't get any prop walk in reverse and the boat will stop on a dime. It's like stepping on the brakes. I can motor at 2000 RPM and do 7 kts, 7.5 if the main is up and can be filled.