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Changing prop, what to look out for?
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Author:  DLC [ Fri Sep 05, 2008 11:30 am ]
Post subject:  Changing prop, what to look out for?

I've decided to change the prop on my boat (94 Freedom 170, 3.0) since my current one is starting to look pretty ratty with chipped edges and the like. I'm going from an aluminum to a stainless steel, same size, pitch, etc. Are the props hard to remove, and if so do they require a puller? I'm pretty mechanically inclined but never hesitate to ask questions beforehand. I plan on using a new cotter pin. Is there anything problem areas I should look out for?

Author:  St. Louis Dave [ Fri Sep 05, 2008 1:43 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

Make sure you use the correct grease on the spline when installing your new prop to make removal easier in the future.
If you are switching from aluminum to stainless, you might want to work out a deal with your dealer about trying different pitches before you make your final choice. You are going to find a nice performance difference with a SS prop so you may want to repitch a bit.

Author:  DLC [ Fri Sep 05, 2008 2:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

St. Louis Dave, thanks for the reply. What would be the correct grease for the prop? Also, I would expect a small performance drop going to a stainless prop from an aluminum since the stainless one should be heavier. Am I wrong in this assumption?

Author:  Walt [ Fri Sep 05, 2008 4:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

The blades are thinner, and they weigh about the same. Expect an overall increase in top end due to less flex and thinner blades; and a very slight reduction in hole-shot performance for the same reason. Look around these forums for prop related stuff, we have many on here, especially going from Alum to SS. I would recommend trying your current pitch first. It's an easy starting point that should be very close.

Good Luck

Author:  LouC [ Fri Sep 05, 2008 7:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

I use OMC/Bombardier triple guard grease on the propshaft splines, it is a waterproof grease that even stands up to being in salt water for 6 months at a time. I'm sure Volvo and Merc have an equivalent product.

Author:  St. Louis Dave [ Fri Sep 05, 2008 9:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

Just ask for spline grease. It's a higher waterproof quality. Once you switch to SS, you'll never go back to aluminum. You feel the difference from the hole to the top end. It's amazing how much the alum props flex.

http://www.acepropeller.com/clinic.asp
Should I spend the extra money for a stainless propeller?

In most cases, by simply making a direct conversion to stainless in the same size as your aluminum prop, you will notice an improvement in both acceleration and top speed. The reason for this is very simple, but frequently misunderstood. Stainless is seven times stronger than aluminum. Propellers don't have to be that much stronger so manufacturers can make them thinner and still be two or three times as strong. Thinner props cut through the water easier and this of course translates to better performance.
Stainless propellers generally cost a couple of hundred dollars more than an aluminum or composite propeller.
There are two situations where I don't recommend stainless over aluminum or composite: smaller outboards in pleasure applications, (because the prop can be stronger than the gear case parts) and for very occasional boaters who are happy with the existing performance of their boat.

Author:  230 Mike [ Sat Sep 06, 2008 2:18 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

I'd add a 3rd - some people boat in waters where it's very hard to avoid beating up the prop. SS props cost a lot more to buy and a fair bit more to repair.

Author:  Walt [ Sat Sep 06, 2008 6:11 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

230 Mike wrote:
I'd add a 3rd - some people boat in waters where it's very hard to avoid beating up the prop. SS props cost a lot more to buy and a fair bit more to repair.


I tend to hit things, and beach frequently. Most of the bottom around here is made of silt, sticks and mud. That can be fairly abusive to an Alum prop, as I would have mine re-worked about once per season. I switched to SS about 4 years ago, and have not had one serviced yet under the same conditions. I've already saved the initial cost difference in maint/repair!

Author:  Walt [ Sat Sep 06, 2008 10:29 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

Update to a previous post I have, but related to this one......

My boat is finally repaired! First they found the shift cable damaged from rubbing against the engine, hence no forward gear. After getting it back, it would stop pushing at about 1000 rpm. That problem turned out to be only a damaged prop hub! I check mine and lube midway through the season as I have for 6 years now, and it still grenaded on me.... make sure you check this frequently!

Author:  ht32bsx115 [ Sat Sep 06, 2008 3:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

Howdy,

If you're going to R&R a prop Mercury suggests using SP#101, 2-4-C but NOT spline grease. While ANY grease is better than nothing, spline grease is not really intended for water submersion.


From Mercury Manual #14:

Quote:
Lubricating Propeller Shaft


a - Special Lubricant 101, 2-4-C Marine Lubricant With Teflon Or Perfect Seal With
Teflon (Listed In Order Of Effectiveness)




Regards.

Author:  DLC [ Sat Sep 06, 2008 9:19 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

Great information, thanks to everyone for the informative replies.

Author:  DLC [ Thu Sep 11, 2008 3:52 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

Changed the prop yesterday. There was plenty of grease still on the splines and it came right off without a hitch. Now if the weather will just clear up so that we can try it out.

Author:  St. Louis Dave [ Fri Sep 12, 2008 9:03 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

What did you end up getting for a prop?

Author:  DLC [ Fri Sep 12, 2008 10:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Changing prop, what to look out for?

14 3/4 X 19, the same exact prop I already have except stainless. I snagged a new one on ebay for $100. It sure looks pretty :D :D

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