I am thinking of getting a folding prop for my 2002 Catalina 270. It currently has an 18 HP Yanmar and a 13x10 RH fixed prop. I can't find the exact gearbox reduction ratio (I believe it is 2.62). Any recomendations?
Folding Prop
- Thread starter Soggy Paws
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I have a VariProp 3 blade feathering prop on my boat and find that it makes a tremendous difference in the boat's performance when under power and under sail. The prop thrust in forward and reverse is simply astounding and many other sailors with 2 and 3 blade fixed props have commented on it. I have no idea how much of an improvement it is while under sail in light air, but my boat performs very well in light air. The prop is expensive, but have had it for a season I wouldn't hesitate to make that purchase again. VariProp is the only feathering or folding prop recognized by Yanmar, for what thats worth. Any dealer for a reputable brand of feathering props would be able to tell you which of their products is best suited for your boat and I'd go with their recommendation.
Gary
Gary
Check with Catalina for particulars on your boat. They have always been helpful with questions that I have about my Cat 38.
We all tend to recommend or return to equipment that we have experience with. That said, I have had very good luck with the good old Martek Elliptical folding prop. We had one on our 30' racer cruiser and it served us well enough that I ordered one for my (new to me) Catalina 38. I gave model and year of the boat to the manufacturer and they sent a prop that is perfectly matched to the boat. It works much better than the fixed 2-blade prop that we had. There is less prop walk in reverse and reverse is very positive. Plus we get almost 2 kts better speed in forward. Do your homework, close your eyes, hold your nose, and dive in !!! You should be happy with whatever folding prop you get!
We all tend to recommend or return to equipment that we have experience with. That said, I have had very good luck with the good old Martek Elliptical folding prop. We had one on our 30' racer cruiser and it served us well enough that I ordered one for my (new to me) Catalina 38. I gave model and year of the boat to the manufacturer and they sent a prop that is perfectly matched to the boat. It works much better than the fixed 2-blade prop that we had. There is less prop walk in reverse and reverse is very positive. Plus we get almost 2 kts better speed in forward. Do your homework, close your eyes, hold your nose, and dive in !!! You should be happy with whatever folding prop you get!
Ironically, I have tried to contact Catalina twice via email, and the local dealer. No repsonse yet. And it has been some time. Guess I am gointo have to TALK (if they still do that) to a real person. Thanks for your reply.
I have a friend that put one on his old Cat. 27 two years ago. The difference is AMAZING!
I have a friend that put one on his old Cat. 27 two years ago. The difference is AMAZING!
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