when to replace prop

[dyers78]

buying a a boat and the prop is a little banged up. One of the blades has a small tear in in the edge and is flapped up a little and the edges are pretty nicked up. I was going to replace it any ways but I am curious as to when you should replace the typical prop - ie. does it need to be completely bent/broken blade or does my situation warrant a new prop?

 

[mpsyamaha]

Re: when to replace prop

i would say yes. i replaced a prop that was nicked up and worn, but with no major damage on one of my old boats and it was a wise move. noticeable performance increase in acceleration and a couple miles an hour top speed.

 

[mrmushroomman]

Re: when to replace prop

I would replace it soon. The slightest bend or nick in a prop can inhibit your performance and if it's to bad can cause vibration. As far as when to replace prop you shouldn't have to unless you want a different size or you nick or bend the prop.

 

[rndn]

Re: when to replace prop

Replace the prop.

 

[cbavier]

Re: when to replace prop

buying a a boat and the prop is a little banged up. One of the blades has a small tear in in the edge and is flapped up a little and the edges are pretty nicked up. I was going to replace it any ways but I am curious as to when you should replace the typical prop - ie. does it need to be completely bent/broken blade or does my situation warrant a new prop?

You can take an Adjustable jaw wrench and close it fairly tight. Carefully bend the flapped up (as you say) part back to where it should be. Depeneding how bad the nicks are and length of tear as whether to replace. A little tear say 1/2 inch doesn't warrant a new prop. Anything more should be repaired or replaced. Litle nicks can be filed or ground out keeping balance in mind. Remember PROPS CAN BE REPAIRED TOO by a prop repair shop. Thats a whole lot cheaper than replacing with a brand new one. Also it's cheaper to get a little/ slightly damaged prop repaired than one that the blades are pretty well missing. You could buy a new prop. Have the damaged one repaired and keep it onboard for a spare. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

[QC]

Re: when to replace prop

Yes, hand repairing aluminum props is pretty easy, but you have to be careful not to break big pieces and actually make things worse.

With that said, what you should do though, is buy a new one . . . It doesn't sound like you have a spare, and you need one. Run the new one as your primary. Repair/cleanup the existing one to use as your back-up. There is no reason to lose a weekend, or call a tow service, due to a bent up prop. You should be able to change and keep going in about 10 minutes

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: when to replace prop

If it was me i would keep the old prop for a spare as QC stated and buy a nice new Stainless Steel prop for the primary..