Changing pitch of a J Prop

[doraymefa]

I wish to change the pitch of my 63cm J Prop propeller. The process is clear but can anyone help me source the key needed to release the bronze pitch locking flange?

 

[Dave100456]

I have a J Prop and have changed the pitch even underwater. My prop is a 2018 model and unaware of any if any changes since then.
From memory there are two hex keys needed, one for the anode and one for the two smaller screws holding the locking collar in place. Once these screws have been removed its simply a matter of pulling the collar that you show in your photo backwards and rotating to the desired increment.
J Prop have a instruction sheet on their website see page 14 of https://www.betamarinenc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/MANUALE_AC_GB.pdf

Good luck

Dave

 

[doraymefa]

Dave, thanks for this helpful response. I have removed the two differently sized hex screws as required. There now remains a third locking collar that has two dimples that allow a special key with the appropriate lugs to unscrew it. I attach a screenshot of the page from the J Prop manual. If I ever had it I have lost this key. I am hoping someone will be able to help me source one of those keys.

 

[ashtead]

If all else fails ring Callibra at Deacons ? They might know a source local to you if the Hamble not in range.

 

[wrr]

The tool looks like a bicycle pin spanner, such as used to remove freewheel covers etc. I use one for my 60 y/o Pascall Atkey winches. Various patterns, fixed and adjustable, are to be found on the internet at non-nautical prices.

 

[Dave100456]

Have you tried to adjust the pitch or are you preparing tools to do it?

I don't have the C peg spanner you show and have not needed it on the two or three occasions when I have altered the pitch on my prop.

I think the ring (that requires the peg spanner) is held place and stopped from unscrewing by a 'stud' on the collar that has the two hex socket screws. I was underwater on two occasions when I did this and on the first time, I watched the boatyard do it whilst the boat was in the travel hoist. Whilst my memory is a little hazy about the exact detail, I can say for definite that on all these occasions (some 2 years ago) I do know that the Peg spanner was not needed.

 

[doraymefa]

Great responses all, thanks. It is just a pin spanner that is needed and adjustable ones are easily found online. However the best response I got was from the very helpful team at Callibra who import J Props - a gentle tap with a form (big nail) in the appropriate direction should do the trick - and it did!
I learn that sometimes there is no need to remove the final prop locking collar and the pitch can be adjusted by hand once the anode is removed. Indeed if you plan to make adjustments to the pitch with the boat in the water the locking collar can be removed for that season and replaced in the winter once the preferred setting is established.