Home prop repair questions

[kart74]

So far this year I have been lucky enough to come in contact with 2 submerged prop killers. The first one bent over 2 of the 4 blade tips, but other than that was ok. One of them I was able to flatten back out, but the other broke off when bending it back. About 1/4 inch of the very tip is now missing. How bad is it to run it like this? The other prop is about the same story but nothing broke off. It isn't perfect, but isn't missing anything and looks pretty good. I am thinking that one is ok, but I don't really know how bad they can be and still run them? thanks,

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

They both should be fixed properly by prop shop. The way they are now they both are out of balance and will ruin seals in the lower unit.

 

[kart74]

where I struggle is that the prop repair is 60-80, and a new one is 110. I have heard bad things about prop repairs not lasting or holding. Not sure of the truth of it. This last one it seemed like it barely hit and it did a bunch of damage. Once I figure out the correct prop would stainless be more durable? We run the river a lot and are never safe from logs and such. Thanks.

 

[Frank Acampora]

The bearings are usually well sized and can accommodate a small out of balance condition without ruining the prop shaft seal or doing damage to the lower unit. While it is not the best, you can probably run the prop with a small chunk missing. While stainless is more durable and does have better performance, if you hit a rock or log, it will bend too. And, since it is more difficult to work, repairs generally cost more.

Aluminum prop repair IS totally dependent upon the welder's skill. I have seen repairs that last forever and you hardly know it was a repair. On the other hand, I have seen repairs that simply broke out while running.

At 110 for a new prop are you talking about a pressed in rubber hub prop or a prop with a changeable hub? If a prop with a changeable hub is a bit cheaper, it may pay you to buy a new one and just consider it as a disposable item like brakes on a car.

 

[bruceb58]

Do not run the prop with a chunk missing. It is now way out of balance.

 

[dazk14]

Do not run the prop with a chunk missing. It is now way out of balance.

Geez, I hate to disagree with Frank, but it often does cause damage....Over time.

It won't happen overnight unless it's real bad. I'd put yours in the bad, not real bad.

I would suggest a new prop...Unless you have a 1st rate prop shop. A new prop will be better dynamically balanced, vs. the static balance of a repaired prop.

 

[Scott Danforth]

both a properly repaired prop and a new prop will have the same strength and performance.

since you have impacted with something twice, you may want to get to know your prop repair folks

I know the guys at General Propeller in Bradenton on a first name basis :facepalm: