New prop

[Cadan]

I took the boat out on the river last week and caught my prop on some underwater debris, Hasnt done much damage but some small vibration, removed it to have it repaired but im toying with the idea of fitting a stainless. Can anyone give me the pos and cons of stainless

[Tower_boy]

Hmmm if you are getting vibration firstly don't run the boat anymore.

Stainless often gives better performance as the blades can be built thinner thus grip the water better whilst disturbing it a lot less -they flex alot less also further improving performance.

However if you ding it you ding everything! by taking out the weak link (the standard prop) then the weak point moves elsewhere... this could be your drive shaft or gearbox...

In my opinion Stainless just isn't worth it on V drives and Direct drives - especially if you stand to hit debris once in a while.

You'd be better to keep a spare prop on board at all times.

Is there any reason you are thinking of changing to SS other than just cos the current is broken? Need a better hole shot etc?

(Also... I got your PM, please give me a call - my office is 01270 872161; if i'm out they'll give you my mobile; call whenever you want. I'd like to put a pack together for you but need to know a few more factors )

Cheers,

Mike
Wakeboard Towers UK

[Cadan]

Thanks Mike,

I will give you a call in a day or so.

With regards to the SS prop I have the same concerns as you with regards to damaging the shaft, bearings and gearbox, the dealer assures me though that the gearbox has a sheer pin to stop this happening.

I still dont like the idea of that though as im sure it would be a pain to replace instead of the ten minute prop change.

Performance wise we dont have a problem so I think i will stick with the original and invest in a spare.

Cheers

[Tower_boy]

Whilst the sheer pin is in place it won't be as cheap as a prop repair to fix... thats assuming it does go and not allow any damage to the V drive, shaft, 'box etc...

For getting your current prop fixed up I always advise towards Steel Developments (www.steeldevelopments.co.uk). Never had an issue with them and their price is pretty tight too!

Cheers,

Mike