Prop Upgrade

[Cap-n - Mike]

I have a 1980 Hunter 27. "High Life" I noticed last summer while sailing that my prop rotated while I was underway. This summer I plan on cruising Lake Michigan for three weeks. Therefore, the elimination of prop drag, and the fact that I have never replaced my cutless bearing in 22 years I decided to investigate purchasing a "Flex-O-Fold" propeller. Have any of you Hunter 27 Skippers replaced the cutless bearing on a 27? How difficult was it? Also have any of you replaced the standard hunter (2) blade 10x13x1 propeller with a Flex-O-Fold prop or any other prop to eliminate drag? I'm also wondering where I can purchase a cutless bearing for a 1980 Hunter. There are no Hunter Dealers in Milwaukee area.

 

[Steve Dion]

Cutlass available most anywhere

Capt Mike:Do you know if you need one? You can find a cutlass most anywhere. The yard where you launch you boat will probably have them and can do it for you. They will probably run about $50-70 plus installation. They can be a bugger to R/R so it may be prudent to have the yard do it for you. As far as your prop turning, just put the engine in reverse after you kill the engine.Check out the archives before you purchase a folding prop. If you are looking for less drag, they do that well. Be sure that you are not going to give up power under speed and backing ability. Folders are fine when they open, but if they don't you may wish you had your old prop back.

 

[Cap-n - Mike]

I found out that the Flex-O-Fold Prop will not fit on a Hunter 27. The Flex Prop requires 11 3/8" clearance between the shaft strut and the rudder. The Hunter 27 has approximately 8". As far as replacing the cutless bearing, it's 22 years old and the rubber sleeve is very thin. I'm having the boat surveyed in the next day or two (required by my insurance carrier due to boat age), and I will get the surveyors opinion.