3 Bladed Prop

[John Murphy 5]

Please, I am thinking of changing my factory, 2 bladed prop for a 3 blade. RH, Diam.: 18 in., Pitch: ??. It's an Hunter 376, 1997-8, Yanmar 3 JH2E, 45 hp, 3600 rpm max, cruise at 2800 rpm/ at 5 kts; Disp: 16,400 lbs. Is this feaseable & what would the new specs be ??? Much Thanx, Murph

[SkiprJohn]

Hi John,

Yes, you can do it. What would be the reason you want to change? I believe there to be a bit more drag with a 3 blade while sailing.
There have been quite a few discussions here on the forum about what size needed for particular engines/transmissions/vessels and how to determine the best size for each. Just do a search for "Prop Size" and you'll come up with a bunch of threads. I'd keep the same diameter and then adjust the pitch if needed.
Good luck.

[NCboatrx]

Hello John,

Going to a three blade prop will definately give you more bite in the water at the expense of some extra drag when sailing. I suggest that you contact a good propeller shop and ask them to work out exactly what prop will work best for you. Done forget to also provide the transmission ratio. They will also be able to supply a prop at a fair price.

If you are on the east coast, contact either General Propeller in Florida or Accutech Propellers in NH. My company and customers have had excellent service from both companies.

Good luck, Stanley

[pistarckle]

Right hand ?

[Cheechako]

it will help a lot in docking/reverse etc... better bite in a chop fwd too. You need a propshop to recommend based on your current prop.