www.iFourWinns.com

So pulling in a bit too quick to the slip I dropped into reverse for a second and thought to myself...this thing sure isn't slowing down much. ...clunk... into the dock.... swap out the tube and attempt to back out and of course nothing happens, no forward either....

assumed shift cable first then realized the prop left the boat probably when I dropped into reverse. <<sigh>>

Won't be the first or last to lose a prop and it happened in a good spot. That said any tricks to rescue the old one? I think I know within about 10 feet where it is, assuming it backed off once I selected reverse, water is about 25-30 feet where it dropped. Pretty green water and even with any diving equipment I suspect visibility is less than a foot.

Was pondering a rare earth magnet (super strong) and a ski rope and kind of troll around the area for it. Not the end of the world but would like to get it back if I can.

Any favorites for a replacement source....and seeing as I probably have a chance to try a new prop what should I get? I have no idea what was on it but suspect it was stock with the boat, wouldn't mind trying something different but that said I have no reason to be unhappy with the current prop.



Had some fun while it lasted and got the neighbor kid up on skis for the first time.

_________________
Jon Miller
1998 four Winns Horizon H200
Volvo Penta 4.3 GL
Newtown, CT

untitled-545 by millerjont, on Flickr

**edit** my magnet theory probably won't work on an aluminum prop....<<dumbass>>

is there any steel in those things? maybe the hub?

_________________
Jon Miller
1998 four Winns Horizon H200
Volvo Penta 4.3 GL
Newtown, CT

untitled-545 by millerjont, on Flickr

Your prop was likely a alloy mix of all sorts of metals & should be magnetic.
Get the dive gear on, I reckon.

_________________
2011 Four Winns H180 SS.
Aussie built Mustang 2800.
SOLD - 1997 Four Winns Horizon RS

I have found some really good deals on ebay for brand new Mercury props. I check there from time to time. The last prop I picked up on ebay was 21 pitch that was $125 cheaper than what the boat dealer wanted for it.

_________________
2014 Four Winns H180 RS
14' 70's Lund

The aluminum prop and its hub are made made of non-magnetic metals. Even stainless props are seldom attracted to a magnet. My guess is the prop will be near the point you shifted into reverse or somewhere behind that. How far is a good question. With very limited visibility diving will be by the "Braille" method. The diver will probably want to use a line between two points or weights to do an organized search pattern.

Prop retaining nuts are usually either a self locking nut or they are cotter keyed. Are you sure someone is not tampering with the prop nut? I've heard of some people doing this as a prank.

_________________
Surface Interval: A scuba diving term for that time between dives to relax and prepare for life's next great adventure.

Current boat: '02 FW 268 Vista
Previous boat: '95 FW 190 Horizon

These guys have great prices: http://jacosmarine.com/new-mercury-propellers/
Ordered my high five from them for $479.

_________________
Seth




2005 210 Horizon
5.0L GXi
"Don't Think Twice"