FOLDING PROP - worthwhile for a heavy displacement long keeler?

[geem]

I am contemplating a Gori two blade folder on my 3/4 keel skeg hung rudder 44ft cruising boat. Currently I have a 3 blade fixed prop.

Am I likely to see a 1/2 knot improvement at say 5 knots.

I would say yes. Our 3blade Brunton folder on our 44ft ketch seems to give good boat speed in light winds. We get 5.5knots to windward in 8knots true

 

[Scotty_Tradewind]

That's the only one which will fit the aperture on my boat. One day I'll have the money ...

Hi Jumble duck,

Is the Kiwi larger then?

I'm not necessarily a fan of any type but with the non metal blades is it possible they collect as many barnacles?

S.

 

[JumbleDuck]

Hi Jumble duck,

Is the Kiwi larger then?

I have a titchy little 1GM10 (9hp) and Kiwiprops aren't made for engines that small. Haven't checked the physical size.

 

[Tranona]

Hi Jumble duck,

Is the Kiwi larger then?

I'm not necessarily a fan of any type but with the non metal blades is it possible they collect as many barnacles?

S.

You have restricted space lengthwise, although not so much as some such as the Contessa and Jumbleducks Francis/Victoria. So you cannot fit a folding prop but a feathering type, some of which may be too long because of the mechanism. The Featherstream suggested has a very compact boss and will fit easily in your space. It has stainless steel blades and is no more or less susceptible to fouling than any other prop.

 

[harstonwood]

If any one wants a brand new, still packaged kiwi prop, plus greasing kit, at a sensational discount off new price, pm me
Its LH 18.5" 23 degrees. (40' boat volvo engine 130s saildrive)

 

[Woodlouse]

I am contemplating a Gori two blade folder on my 3/4 keel skeg hung rudder 44ft cruising boat. Currently I have a 3 blade fixed prop.

Am I likely to see a 1/2 knot improvement at say 5 knots.

I'd suggest that you're likely to lose performance under power if you go from a three blades to two. Folding props are all well and good but they can be inefficient in astern since it's only centrifugal force holding the blades open whilst their drive is trying to close them. Feathering props are equally efficient in both ahead and astern. And for you I'd have thought a thee bladed feathering propellor would be the better choice.

I'm going to join the ranks of supporters of the Darglow Featherstream, they are well made, compact and the customer service is absolutely first class.

 

[Old Rhodie]

Yes - my Trintella 29 is also long keel and only the Darglow is designed to fit in such apertures. Better speeds both sailing and motoring.
Ken