Stainless vs Alunimum

[firecapt13]

My question for anyone that may want to weigh in. What are pros and cons of either stainless or aluminium props. I have been told that stainless will not give and could cause damage to outdrive. I operate in regional lakes only, no salt.

 

[bnicov]

Re: Stainless vs Alunimum

If there are a lot of shoals and unmarked rocks where you normally boat, stick to an aluminum prop. A stainless prop does not give very much and will transfer the shock of a grounding right up the drive, wrecking propshafts, gears etc... an aluminum will break and the chances of further damage other than the prop are minimized. The extra 2-3mph isn't worth it in my opinion.

 

[craze1cars]

Re: Stainless vs Alunimum

There are not many stainless props out there that don't have breakaway hubs....they are designed to protect your drive if the prop itself won't. So I feel that the fear of internal drive damage is unfounded with stainless.

Generically speaking, all things being equal, stainless is superior. Not only a small top speed increase, but also slightly better holeshot, more fuel efficiency, an ability to stir up silt & gravel on occasion without any damage, ability to rebuild and repair repeatedly if necessary, etc....

Stainless downsides: Price.

However, benefits vary DRASTICALLY with application. What kind of boat are you asking about? Size? HP? Current prop setup and performance?

 

[firecapt13]

Re: Stainless vs Alunimum

1992 Wellcraft 186 eclipse with a 4.3 mercruiser and alpha 1 gen 2. I currently have a 14 1/2 x 19 prop. it is aluminum. i was considering a stainless but have heard cons of damaging the outdrive with it. Someone told me they have a breakaway hub or shear key that will break before outdrive, any info on that.

 

[TBarCYa]

Re: Stainless vs Alunimum

For your Mercruiser, you will probably have the interchangeable hub system like I have on mine. There's a plastic hub that goes inside the prop and a brass (I think) sleeve that mates to the plastic and the splines on the drive. In the event of the prop taking a hit, the plastic will break and save the drive.