Prop recommendations

Jim D

.
Dec 10, 2007
139
Hunter 410 Maryland
Hello
I just purchased a 2001 410. Survey indicates changing cutless bearing, zincs and align prop blades. I have a 2 bladed prop on it. I am thinking about changing to a 3 bladed fixed prop. Is there a prop size recommendation anywhere on this site or in my boat manual? I have looked and can’t find it anywhere.
Thanks
Jim
 

splax

.
Nov 12, 2012
694
Hunter 34 Portsmouth
Hello,
This is the site of the firm that makes the Campbell Sailer propeller. http://www.westbynorth.com/Choosing.aspx
They have an article there on the complex issue of propeller selection. The environment of use is a large factor. I have a Campbell Sailer propeller and have been pleased with the performance.
 
Last edited:
Jun 1, 2009
1,852
Hunter 49 toronto
Don't get a fixed prop

Hello
I just purchased a 2001 410. Survey indicates changing cutless bearing, zincs and align prop blades. I have a 2 bladed prop on it. I am thinking about changing to a 3 bladed fixed prop. Is there a prop size recommendation anywhere on this site or in my boat manual? I have looked and can’t find it anywhere.
Thanks
Jim
Get a 3 blade feathering prop. Either max prop or variprop. You won't regret it .
 

Jim D

.
Dec 10, 2007
139
Hunter 410 Maryland
Re: Don't get a fixed prop

The folding props look nice but wow a bit salty on the wallet..... for my model boat. i had a 2 blade folding prop on my hunter 34 and yes it was great. no issues at all. They work.
j
 
Jun 1, 2009
1,852
Hunter 49 toronto
Not a folding prop

The folding props look nice but wow a bit salty on the wallet..... for my model boat. i had a 2 blade folding prop on my hunter 34 and yes it was great. no issues at all. They work.
j
The feathering is totally different.
On a 41 foot boat, it's almost nit optional.
I would not put on a fixed 3 blade.
When you are sailing you are dragging a huge bucket behind you.
If you let the prop freewheel, it can damage the transmission,
Yanmar states this clearly.
Go down the dock & find someone with a 3 blade feathering prop.
Ask them to take you out for a spin,
Zero prop walk
Stop in your own length dead straight .
Once you try it, you'll get it
 
Jun 1, 2009
1,852
Hunter 49 toronto
Depends who you talk to

Art, Yanmar is saying to definitely let it freewheel. here is the service Bulletin link. post #8

http://forums.hunter.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?p=1100809&highlight=yanmar service bulletin
I am very aware of the service bulletin you are referring to.
Yet, when I have spoken with the Yanmar folks in the US, they say the opposite.
The reason I got was that when the engine wasn't running, there was no lubrication.
I've been on a boat with a 3 blade fixed prop which was locked in gear while sailing. It actually snapped the shaft.
No 2 ways about it. Once you get over 40 feet, you really need to consider alternatives to a fixed 3 blade prop. A decent prop is an investment in your boat; same as decent sails, etc.
 
Apr 11, 2010
979
Hunter 38 Whitehall MI
I am very aware of the service bulletin you are referring to. Yet, when I have spoken with the Yanmar folks in the US, they say the opposite. The reason I got was that when the engine wasn't running, there was no lubrication. I've been on a boat with a 3 blade fixed prop which was locked in gear while sailing. It actually snapped the shaft. No 2 ways about it. Once you get over 40 feet, you really need to consider alternatives to a fixed 3 blade prop. A decent prop is an investment in your boat; same as decent sails, etc.
I don't buy the no lubrication argument. Several mechanics have told me that the transmission is filled with fluid and even when freewheeling it's still spinning in that lubricant. It does very much depend on what kind of transmission. My older Catalina had a Hurth transmission and there the recommended locking in reverse to prevent wheeling and subsequent damage. Our newer Hunter 38 with Yanmar as you know the service bulletin says let it wheel. In fact a dealer cautioned me that if you put it in reverse to lock the shaft DO NOT attempt to put it back in neutral to start it. The movement of boat through the water puts pressure on the transmission such that you have to force the shifter to neutral and damage will result. They advised starting in reverse then shifting to neutral. All that said I switched to feathering Maxprop and have be happy ever since.