Propeller antifouling - B331

Jan 10, 2018
264
Beneteau 331 Halifax
Hi there,

I have never put anything on my prop. But this year I have "wall to wall" white barnacles. You don't have to be a certified propeller engineer to know that this cannot be good for thrust.

My boat is in salt water.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!
 
Jan 5, 2017
2,343
Beneteau First 38 Lyall Harbour Saturna Island
I have used anti fouling on my prop the last few years. Seems to work well here on the west coast.
 

arf145

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Nov 4, 2010
495
Beneteau 331 Deale, MD
Barnacle Barrier has worked pretty well for me most years--but not all. This year it has worked well...it was only very recently that I detected some imbalance, though still getting good thrust.
 
Jan 4, 2006
7,171
Hunter 310 West Vancouver, B.C.
I have never put anything on my prop. But this year I have "wall to wall" white barnacles
Out here on the "Wet Coast" barnacles seem to go in cycles. As a rule, not to bad with just one or two sticking. Several years ago, I had a load of barnacles the size and shape of a basketball. It was so bad that the boat had near to no power to get over to the yard for a haul out and left great clouds of black smoke in out trail. Ever since, just a few every year.

I can just feel the next attack coming :rolleyes: !
 
  • Ha
Likes: jssailem
Feb 20, 2011
8,048
Island Packet 35 Tucson, AZ/San Carlos, MX
It was so bad that the boat had near to no power to get over to the yard for a haul out and left great clouds of black smoke
Yah, this happened to me a few weeks ago when I put out of the marina to do a bottom cleaning.
Was followed by a stinkpotter who (rightfully) noted the black stuff emanating from my exhaust. :facepalm:
How embarrassing!
The prop was completely encrusted, and my hands still bear the scars from that scraping job.
 
Jan 10, 2018
264
Beneteau 331 Halifax
Problem with prop speed is that it is not available in my area - Practical Sailor recommends professional installation.
 
May 24, 2004
7,164
CC 30 South Florida
Take it to a prop shop where they will clean it, repair any nicks, true the pitch and paint it with a hard antifoul paint. For at least the first time it will be worth it to let the pros do it.