Re: When to replace the prop...
Replace it when it begins to look like a mushroom, just foolin with ya, Technally props should not have any dings or bends, they can be placed out of balance when a strike occurs thus transmitting vibrations throughout the drive train which could cause damage to seals and bearings in the outdrive in due time, put your spare on, Don't forget to lock down the Tab washer on the prop nut/retainer and have your prop repaired, most repairs can be made at about 1/2 to 1/3 the cost of a new one and obtain charts of the area you boat in, or find somebody that knows the lake to help guide you as to where you can go and not go, hitting the bottom can be costly and dangerous, If your in waters your not sure about slow her down and watch your depths carefully, even with a depth finder at planing speeds when the bottom comes up its going to be to late, since your new to boating you will encounter the learning curve, as to docking and loading and unloading boat on and off trailer, If you have not already maybe consider taking a boat safety and handling course, I see from your post your a new boat owner, are you also a new operator, please don't get me wrong I'm not bashing you, just trying to give helpful advise so you and family and friends can enjoy boating to the max, but there is a reason why you touched bottom. I boat in some of the most dangerous fresh water's in North America as far as under water hazards go. I'v never damaged a prop or skeg due hitting the bottom, now picnic tables and deadheads have been another issue, anybody on this board that has ever boated in Southern Georgian Bay will most agree with me, Glad you came to the board for advise people here will help you out we're not here to knock ya down sorry for the ranting but I see way to many new owners getting into trouble and then getting fed up with boating altogether.
