Leaving Zerk Fitting In Your Max Prop?

[man7sell]

Just mussing. I know that Max Prop say to install the zerk fitting to grease the prop then remove and install the plugs. Doing this underwater in the PNW is a challenge. Hard to do with dive gloves on, also hard to do with cold glove-less hands.


So what would be the problem with installing a couple of stainless zerks with threads with corrosion protection? Sure make it easier the next time it is ready for grease service.

[jamhass]

I modified my MaxProp (with PYI, the MaxProp Distributors permission/encouragement) with a "permanent" zirc fitting. I put it in the middle of the end cap, where it fits nicely under the zinc. The zinc has a hollow in that area that is large enough for a zirc fitting. I add grease each time I haul or replace the zinc and make sure to leave a nice coat of grease on the zirc. 10+ years, no issues.

Note, this is the older 3-blade prop, and the internal clearances are large enough to allow grease to flow and express itself at the root of the blades. Newer props may have tighter clearances. Check with PYI.

[tkeithlu]

For one, zerk nipples have a spring behind the ball that should keep water out. Two, consider waterproof grease. Three, the zerk fitting has a pipe thread, and so does your (my) flexible shaft grease gun, so you could dispense with the zerk, pump in grease, and add the plug. If I were doing this underwater, I'd be incclined to lock the plug in a ViseGrip before jumping in.

[fstbttms]

If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

https://youtu.be/EiGowIK-GGI