Propeller

[noah4009]

I have a 1971 Chrysler 55HP outboard. One blade on the propeller, well its tip is slightly bent back. Can this be fixed? Can I just hammer it back? It is not that bad at all. Well, I quess you are thinking another dumb question, but I am thinking another lesson learned.
Thanks

 

[arsenalpsu]

Re: Propeller

http://www.propmd.com/c-23-prop-repair.aspx

The above site is a place you can get your prop repaired at a decent price. When you say a small portion of your prop is damaged, 90% of your push comes from the last 10% of the blades. A small bend can make a big difference. Also, if your blades are unbalanced it will case premature ware on your gears and bearings in your LU.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Propeller

You can straighten a prop blade but it must be done in small stages with multiple taps of the hammer. The blades are cast and if you try to work them too much, they will break or crack. Due to the nature of cast metal, if you work it gently, you are in essence cold forging and actually increasing the strength--as long as you don't over-do it. Just keep eyeballing it to match it to the other blades. You will find that with a little practice, you will be able to see and fix even small variations.

I like to use the end of a 2 x 4 as an anvil. Usually it is one of my engine stands.