tip on 1 blade of prop bent on used boat purchase

[Thunder220]

This is my first post. I purchased a used 2005 inboard/outboard from a very reputable marina a few weeks ago. It was certified "good to go". This 4.3 L EFI engine has a very loud mechanical noise (hard to describe this a high pitch noise) when I hit 3200 RPM's or higher. When I drive below 3200 rpm'S it's not as noticible but still there.
In addition to this issue, with the boat docked this past weekend, my neighbour noticed that the tip of one balde was bent. I didn't hit anything. The motor has less that 190 hrs on it. I dont know how long this boat has been driven with a bent prop. The prop is being replaced by the marina. Could the engine noise and the bent prop be tied together? The boat goes like the wind and is very clean and I would like to keep it but after reading about damage caused by bent props, I'm worried that some major engine damage might have taken place or be just around the corner. I should add that I haven't driven the boat since the prop was changed because it's at the marina being checked out fo the noise and a possible fuel pump issue. Should I be concerned?

 

[reddogg]

Re: tip on 1 blade of prop bent on used boat purchase

Yes, they very well could be tied together. A damaged prop will cause an unbalance problem and can result in damage to your gears. The noise you hear could be a result of this. If your boat is under warrenty, I'd have the dealer look into it.

Red

 

[craze1cars]

Re: tip on 1 blade of prop bent on used boat purchase

High pitched whine? Possible fuel pump issue? EFI motor? These all sound DIRECTLY related. Is the noise still there (quiet) when idling in neutral? If yes, then realize that failing electric fuel pumps almost ALWAYS have a high pitched whistle, ESPECIALLY on a boat where the fuel pump is usually not submerged in fuel but right up in the engine compartment.

Here's my guess: When they replace your fuel pump, the noise will likely go away....

And I will also guess with a new prop and a new fuel pump your boat will sound quiet and normal, and there will be no lasting damage. Only a test drive will answer this for certain, as I can't "hear" the sound you are describing...

If the noise is still there after fuel pump is replaced, then I agree 100% with the previous poster...outdrive gears may need attention from impact damage and/or long-term running with damaged prop.