props to you
- Thread starter rblevens
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Looks like the PO changed to a 3 blade and kept the old (and possibly original ?) 2 blade as a spare. Just as I did only the "spare" hasn't made it to the boat yet.
Yes, the PO very likely changed to a three blade prop and kept the old two blade as a spare. Here is a good prop company to check with regarding the repair of your prop or buying a new or used one. These guys are very good and will answer your questions. A three blade prop is much better than a two blade. The two blade will work of course but not as well when under power.
http://www.discountprops.com/
http://www.discountprops.com/
Can't remember which engine but I think you have the 3QM30 or 30hp. My prop guy, Flex-O-Fold, recommends 15x13 for our 18000+ boats with 30hp.
A folder Rick. Had the Flex-O-Fold two-blade, also 15", on the 2QM20. When I installed the 3YM30 I sprung for the new 3-blade.
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Amazing difference from fixed Rick. I had a Michigan fixed 3-blade for awhile so I know how much better the folder is. But it is expensive and there is nothing wrong with a good fixed blade prop.
Ed how much speed are we talking here? (another knot?) When I need to motor i.e. strong currents/winds I need to motor. You know what I mean? I have the fixed three blade.
I replaced the original 2 blade with a Campbell Sailor 3 blade. Not as expensive as a folding or feathering. I have been happy with the lack of drag and the performance as far as acceleration, stopping and less prop walk. We ( Norm and I ) are working at solving what looks like an over prop situation- I can only get to 2500 rpm.
Check out www.westbynorth.com/.
Check out www.westbynorth.com/.
gear ratio
I have a 2.46;1 tranny on my 31hp Westerbeke. 15 x13 campbell sailer redlines easily, doesn't get anywhere near hull speed. Gonna go for externally adjustable pitch feathering prop. Start at 15 X 15 and see what I get
I have a 2.46;1 tranny on my 31hp Westerbeke. 15 x13 campbell sailer redlines easily, doesn't get anywhere near hull speed. Gonna go for externally adjustable pitch feathering prop. Start at 15 X 15 and see what I get
My Flex-O-Fold makes 7 knots at under 3000 rpm. Never pushed it beyond that. The good thing is that in tough conditions it will always do 6 knots. Obviously backing is much improved over a 2-blade and even the 3-blade fixed I was running. All this with the 3YM30.
Interesting result, Ed. This season I installed a 3 bladed Flex-o-fold. First noticeable difference is total lack of vibration at any RPM. Much improved forward speed, especially in wind and chop, from the original 2 blade fixed prop. Far less drag under sail. Downsides - still tremendous port prop walk in reverse and less reverse thrust than before. I must be far more aggressive in reverse when docking than previously.
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