New Prop - Stern Squat OK?

[Gary A]

I finally had a chance to get my boat out this weekend after changing from a 2 blade to a 3 blade prop. The prop (a Campbell Sailor from West by North) seems to have made a big difference in all the things we were hoping to improve. Backing with less stern kick, stopping more quickly, more forward speed at lower RPMs and NO MORE VIBRATION. YIPPEEEEEE!!!The one thing that seems to be more pronounced is the stern seems to be squatting lower in the water. The exhaust discharge is now under water when we are at about 2,000 RPM. The water level is now up about six inched from the bottom of the transom. Is this OK? Should I be concerned? Should I go on a diet?By coincidence, this is also the first time we've had the boat out with the aft water tank filled. Any thoughts about how much this contributes to the squat?

 

[Claude L.-Auger]

Put water tank on a diet

My 34 squats also when I fill the aft tank ! Understandly since your're adding about 240 pounds right at the stern (+/- 30 gallons). I only fill mine when I go on longet trips. Day trips and just short overnights I have enough capacity with the port tank and hot water tank.

 

[Robert Polk]

Approaching hull speed

As you apply more power the boat goes faster than it previously did and the bow wake reattaches to the hull further aft and the boat squats. If you could apply more power you would go essentailly the same speed but squat even more absorbing the additional power until the boat tries to plane. That won't happen with a Hunter.

 

[Tom]

3 bladed prop

G, sounds interesting, No more vibration's @ any RPM?Do you have a 30GMF Yanmar? What is the spec's on the Prop and where can I get one?

 

[Gary A]

Campbell 3 Bladed Prop Specs

Here's the e-mail I got from the helpful folks at West By North (http://www.westbynorth.com). It has the details including the specs and price. Thanks to Andy Howard for the initial tip. Gary-------------------------------Hello Gary;Thank you for your email, and your phone call.In going over the database, we have installed props on several Hunter 34's, all with the Yanmar 3GM engines and they all have 1" shaftsBased on that information , we would recommend a CS3RH15x9x1 for your installation. This is a Campbell Sailer, three blade, Right Hand rotation, 15" diameter, 9" pitch for a 1" shaft. This size is recommended to give you a good cruising rpm and still have reserve for head wind and seas.This propeller would cost you $400.00 plus a shipping and handling fee of $35.00. It would take us 3-4 days to make this propeller and approximately 4-5 days for delivery. We accept checks by mail, or credit cards by mail, fax, or phone.We would be pleased to discuss this recommendation with you, simply drop us a note and we will call. Smooth sailing,Norm Ross