Prop recommendations for a multihull

[bigwow]

Bigwow got craned out today and both the folding props are knackered, these were the third pair of Volvo folding props in 12 years.

Any recommendations for alternative makes

 

[Tranona]

Other folding props are better, but more expensive. See the articles in December Sailing Today for a review of what is available

 

[boatmike]

Really really recommend you look at brunton autoprops. Expensive but superb. You will think someone has uprated the size of your engines by 50%!

 

[snowleopard]

I was advised by Mr Brunton himself not to use his props because high=speed surfing can bump start the engines. Bruntons do not completely feather!

I have Flex-o-folds from CJR and they are still 100% after 7 years and 1500 hours running.

 

[boatmike]

Don't doubt your word but it's the first time I have heard that. I have the usual Prout Sillette leg (fixed blade but lifting of course) and a rather less usual 10HP "wing engine" port side which I use when manouvering and motor sailing. With a Volvo 2 blade folder this was about as much use as a chocolate teapot underway but now with a brunton it gives me about 5 knots in a calm sea and is super for a bit more push motor sailing with minimal fuel usage. It has never had a tendancy to "bump start".
I also know of 2 other Prouts (Escale and 38) with twin bruntons and they are both very pleased with them so surprised at what you say. Don't really see why a cat is any different to a fast mono in this respect. But of course Prouts are not fantastically fast. I am sure you would go downwind faster than me.

 

[savageseadog]

Are you on saildrives?

 

[bigwow]

Yes Volvo 120's

 

[boatmike]

So's my teeny one actually (not sure of model but Volvo) I usually click it briefly into reverse before switching off then leave it in forward gear. Seems to feather OK then and not rotate.

 

[snowleopard]

I doubt the high speed bump start problem would apply to a heavy displacement boat like a Prout. The figure quoted to me was 15 knots (I have seen 17 under sail). You also have the advantage that you don't have to pay for 2 props!

The Bruntons rely on ball bearings that are open to the water so would probably be inadvisable for any boat kept on a muddy drying mooring as many cats are.