Suggestions for new prop
- Thread starter sailorjdh
- Start date
There are many prop discussions on this site, and here is a link to ours.
http://www.ericsonyachts.org/infoexchange/showthread.php?7444-Prop-Comparisons&referrerid=28
We are still using the same three blade fixed with the narrow blades.
http://www.ericsonyachts.org/infoexchange/showthread.php?7444-Prop-Comparisons&referrerid=28
We are still using the same three blade fixed with the narrow blades.
Frank Langer
1984 Ericson 30+, Nanaimo, BC
On our E30+ we have a two blade Varifold folding propeller, geared so both blades consistently open at the same time. Over 12 years it had been problem free, though I do keep it clean of barnacles which can begin to grow in the gears if left unused for a longer time. They also make a three and four blade folding prop, but I don't have any experience with them.
Studies show my 2 blade folding prop to be as effective as many 3 blade props, perhaps because of the shape of the blades, but I do find it a bit "squirrelly" in reverse. I can reverse well enough to anchor effectively, but I do not try to back into a narrow slip.
I think it saves me about a half knot in speed while sailing because it folds nicely. I have seen feathering props, and they look very cool, but they are quite pricey.
Frank
Studies show my 2 blade folding prop to be as effective as many 3 blade props, perhaps because of the shape of the blades, but I do find it a bit "squirrelly" in reverse. I can reverse well enough to anchor effectively, but I do not try to back into a narrow slip.
I think it saves me about a half knot in speed while sailing because it folds nicely. I have seen feathering props, and they look very cool, but they are quite pricey.
Frank
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