In gear or out?

[thegreatcapes]

I have just bought a classic boat with an engine (for the 1st time).
It is has a 18hp Yanmar and a 3 bladed prop.
Should I keep the engine in gear when I start sailing and the engine is off?
Would welcome any advice on this...thanks in anticipation

 

[Peterduck]

The generally accepted position is yes, keep it in gear. I believe that someone did a study to see which had the greater drag, in gear or freely revolving. In gear and locked won.
Peter.

 

[Seanick]

...also, in gear stops the wear on you cutlass bearing, stuffing box and gear box.......

 

[Victorious]

The "norm" as i know it has always been to lock a prop while sailing.
However...It is perhaps not a bad idea to test it out..
I realise Victorious is a tad unusual, but letting the props spin is worth about 15% boat speed

 

[thegreatcapes]

Great, thank you for the help