Let’s talk props

originally posted by CJ Volesky Dec 30, 2019

2 blade vs. 3 blade. I currently have a 14″ – 2 blade LH prop on Smoothie. I am moving to a 16″ prop with the engine change out. What is the benefit vs downside of both? I know the 2 blade is said to be more efficient, less drag, and cheaper. While the 3 blade has more torque and better maneuverability at slow speeds. I’m not looking to go to the MaxProp at this time. That may come later on. Comments welcome.

TodDeedie Bassham
Mon, Dec 30, 2019, 2:03 PM (8 days ago)

CJ,

I’ve heard good things about the Campbell Sailor, which is a three blade prop with thin blades, which make it much more efficient than a 2 blade prop, but without the drag of a 3 blade. A friend put one on his boat and was quite happy.

Campbell Sailer

-Tod

Campbell Sailer :: West By North
Campbell Sailer. The Right Stuff. Independent tests by Practical Sailor Magazine show the Campbell Sailer achieves top marks in the fixed blade category for forward and reverse thrust, and for providing substantially reduced drag under sail.. All Campbell Sailer propellers are available in 2 and 3 blade configurations in sizes from 10” to 27” and larger.
http://www.westbynorth.com

Loren Beach
Mon, Dec 30, 2019, 2:12 PM

to CJ

Hi CJ,
There is quite a bit of prop discussion in this thread. We still have the same fixed three blade and still do 7.0 in smooth water with a clean bottom.

https://www.ericsonyachts.org/infoexchange/showthread.php?7444-Prop-Comparisons

-Loren

mfspike

Jan 7, 2020, 10:00:54 AM
to CJ, rose-city-yacht-club-member-forum@googlegroups.com

The MaxProp is spendy and it will require some tweaking to get just right. It also requires a little annual maintenance. But, I think you would be happy with the investment. It boils down to how much you want to sail vs. motor, and how important sailing performance is to you. You’re likely to lose .5-1.0 knot with a fixed prop.

Be very careful with the prop clearance to the hull. It should be at least 10% of the prop diameter – 1.6″ in your case. We “adjusted” our clearance when we got our Beta 25 by installing a longer shaft.

-Mike Finch

CJ

Jan 8, 2020, 9:33:19 AM
to Rose City Yacht Club Member Forum
Mike, I understand. However, that’s why I said I’m not ready to go that route at this time. 3 times the cost or more is a deterrent and for the most part I don’t have a problem controlling the boat now.

CJ

mfspike
unread,
Jan 8, 2020, 11:35:15 AM
to CJ, Rose City Yacht Club Member Forum
We kept our 14.5″x12, 3-blade fixed prop in case we need it. Actually needed it when we sent the Max prop out for servicing when we did the engine change. It did give us a lot more power under, well, power.

Polished up, it makes a really nice candle holder / nautical centerpiece.

-Mike

• This topic was modified 1 year, 8 months ago by Cathy.