Propeller upgrade

[trest1]

Currently have a standard fixed 2 blade propellers on my Belize 43 Cat
Volvo diesel MD4020 sail drives (2)
Any comments, experiences, pros and cons for alternatives would be appreciated
Thanks Teresa

[tkeithlu]

So what do they do that prompts you to ask for alternatives? Over-reving? too big to get full RPM? Too much drag (can they be positioned to minimize drag while sailing)? Thinking about folding/feathering?

[exMaggieDrum]

Folding or feathering props would be an upgrade. You absolutely need to make sure you get the right diameter and pitch for your boat/engine. I had a Max Prop before and one of the best things about it is that you can change the pitch if needed to dial in a more efficient one (if needed). I am leaning towards getting a Flexofold one from Europe though to replace my current fixed prop.

Flexofold was great in recommending a size and pitch. My current one is both over sized and over-pitched and will not let me reach full engine RPMs and I get black smoke because it overloads the motor.

PYI (Max Prop) will advise you on prop size/pitch too.

Here is a good article about the subject: Folding and feathering propeller test

It compares the feathering and folding props to standard fixed props as well and gives the pros and cons of each. It seems to be a very good article. But you do need to have a good reason to change from what you have. You may find that here.

[Jaxxiam]

Thats for the link, It answered some of my question.

[mikereed100]

You don't mention where you are or where you are going, but if you are in an area with a lot of kelp or traps a folding prop makes sense. My choice would be flex-0-fold. If you are in an area that is relatively debris-free then a feathering prop would be good. We have Kiwi props that we really like but they are fiddly. If you can't afford folding or feathering I would look at the "Campbell Sailor".