We currently have a huge triple blade prop on our 1989 Catalina 30 but I am investigating folding/feathering props to replace it. The engine on the boat is an Universal 25XP. Is the gear reduction 2:1 on this model engine ? Is the prop shaft 1" ? Is is a big job to swap out the props ? Thanks in advance ! CM
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Prop Swop
I would'nt change the prop. I own a Catalina 30 with the original 2 bladed prop. I did'nt change it for a fixed 3 blade because I believe, though it may give a better bite on the water, it will slightly increase the load on the trans and engine while increasing drag under sail. I would'nt change to a folding prop because for the very slight increase in speed does not justify the cost. Everyone I now that have change to a folding prop have had an increase in galvanic corrosion. Zincs have to be changed more frequently. My guess the differant metals in the prop causes this. Catalina 30's are a easily mantained cruising boat not a racing boat. I also believe most sailors imagine a large increase in speed that may be due to a cleaner bottom that was done when the new prop was put on. One can argue for a cruising boat any increase in speed however slight will help on a long passage. Sure, if one does not take in account the delays one will have hauling out or diving to change zincs and check for corrosion. Good luck with whatever you decide.
I would'nt change the prop. I own a Catalina 30 with the original 2 bladed prop. I did'nt change it for a fixed 3 blade because I believe, though it may give a better bite on the water, it will slightly increase the load on the trans and engine while increasing drag under sail. I would'nt change to a folding prop because for the very slight increase in speed does not justify the cost. Everyone I now that have change to a folding prop have had an increase in galvanic corrosion. Zincs have to be changed more frequently. My guess the differant metals in the prop causes this. Catalina 30's are a easily mantained cruising boat not a racing boat. I also believe most sailors imagine a large increase in speed that may be due to a cleaner bottom that was done when the new prop was put on. One can argue for a cruising boat any increase in speed however slight will help on a long passage. Sure, if one does not take in account the delays one will have hauling out or diving to change zincs and check for corrosion. Good luck with whatever you decide.
Cruising speed
Thanks for the info, maybe I should change to the two bladed prop. The boat came with the three bladed prop installed but it also came with a two bladed prop that was not installed. What is your aprox speed when motoring around 2500 rpms? I am usually around 5.25-5.50 knts for those rpms. How does the two blade work when it is rough and your trying to go into the wind ? Thanks CM
Thanks for the info, maybe I should change to the two bladed prop. The boat came with the three bladed prop installed but it also came with a two bladed prop that was not installed. What is your aprox speed when motoring around 2500 rpms? I am usually around 5.25-5.50 knts for those rpms. How does the two blade work when it is rough and your trying to go into the wind ? Thanks CM
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