PIRANHA COMPOSITE PROPS

[SovereignDiver]

Hi. Has anyone tried these composites on Volvo DP 290 outdrives? If so how have they performed? Are they really as good as the publicity?
I was speaking to a marine engineer friend today who said he had used Piranha composite props very successfully on a number of outboards and said they did exactly what it said on the tin. He had however never seen them used on a duo prop outdrive as per my DP290's.
I am fed up having aly props reconditioned or renewed every couple of seasons, and don't want to go the SS route.
The thought of being able to replace any damaged blades rather than the whole prop is rather appealing.
Any information on these composites would be much appreciated.

Many thanks

ThymeSeeker

 

[Dave_Snelson]

I really wouldn't. I have tried replaceable blade props and they don't live up to claims. Like you, I have twin Volvo DP 290's with alli props. Yes, they are a pain! Yes, cavitation burns eat them away and remove the AF. But if I were to make a change, it would be SS.

I do not recommend SS as a panacea because in stony or rocky areas, they are dangerous to outdrives, but in soft sandy areas like Porthmadog (my home port) its no big deal. A good set of SS these days are about the same price as alli...no brainer really!

Oh, BTW, just looked at your biog...Sunseeker Martinique...Mmmmmmm

 

[SovereignDiver]

Hi Dave.
Thanks for the information.
Don't know why, but I have a natural aversion to something as solid as stainless stuck at the end of a complex drive chain for the very reasons you have mentioned, not that I ever inend to get that close to rocky type things.
And yes, a Sunseeker Martinique 36, she's 20 years old this year and we love her. She has looked after us very well, especially when caught out in mid Channel unforecast heavy squalls.
PS Got any photo's of your Windy? Windy's and Princess V class would be my only other choice of vessel for the concentrated time limited cruising we do.
Double Vision (Now Spannerrash) took this vid a couple, of seasons ago http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgDqcIZe3uk
Mike O