H34 3 blade prop

[Ilanortho]

Hi;
I have read previous posts on 3 blade conversion. I need better control and responsiveness when docking with vigorous wind and current. I have also received different recommendations from two different vendors.

It looks like I will probably switch from 15x15 2 blade to a 15x13 three blade prop. BTW, I currently achieve 2900 RPM 6.9 knots (strobe checked) while cruising, 3100 rpm WOT but seem to suffer from lagged response with throttle bursts while docking that puts me into panic mode in tight situations.
Comments appreciated. Ilan

 

[Richard Bryer]

I switched to a 3 blade (CS) a few years ago. I did find that stopping was quicker and propwalk a bit less. You may find 15X13 to be a bit large in pitch. I went to a 14X9 and I am still finding the rpms low at cruising speed.

 

[Ilanortho]

I switched to a 3 blade (CS) a few years ago. I did find that stopping was quicker and propwalk a bit less. You may find 15X13 to be a bit large in pitch. I went to a 14X9 and I am still finding the rpms low at cruising speed.

Thanks. Ilan

 

[Fast Ed]

On an H34 you have room for a 16" prop. The larger diameter is a bit more efficient. My H34 uses a 16x10 2 blade folder and it has much less prop walk than the 15 x 13 fixed 3 blade that was on the boat when I bought it. I would definitely suggest less pitch. I would also suggest slower speeds coming into the dock!

The 3 blade prop will make your boat sail a lot slower in medium air. I also believe that the 3 blade prop will increase weather helm under sail due to its added resistance.

 

[Dreamcatcher67]

I have had my hunter 34 for only one season but it came with an auto prop, it wasnt working properly when i bought the boat but i was able to rebuild it. I cost about $300. dollars to rebuild quit expensive in my book, and very expensive to buy a new one $3000.00 plus but if money is not an object the prop is awesome your boat will be faster than any other hunter 34 without an auto prop and at the docks people think I'm a rock star the way I can back my boat into a slip. I had a lot of experience backing a ski nautique into a slip if your familiar you know its hard, backing my hunter 34 with the auto prop is much easier.

 

[heart of gold]

I had a Campbell Sailor prop on for a few seasons and for a fixed 3 blade it was great. I had a 2 blade before and there was a aggravating vibration coming from the drive train. The CSP smoothed that right out. Mainsail ran a drag test on these props and gave a thumbs up. I have since gone to a Kiwi feathering prop and am very happy with the results. I get at least a knot more in speed and seem to get much better performance in light winds.