Propellor balance check- is it worth it?

[Mike k]

Boat comes out of water on Friday for annual clean up,antifoul and anode replacement. Itll be on the hard for a week and there is some suggestion that a prop balance check is a good idea.According to reports there is an excellent prop specialist near me in Oldham that will check balance and only if needed will repair and charge.
I have no compelling reason to do this - I do get some vibration over 3200 rpm but i dont know if thats just the lockers needing some foam tape or what.
The propellor will have to be removed and taken to the company.
Does the panel think this is a good idea to do?

Thanks for any replies

 

[Erik C]

If it ain't broke don't fix it.

 

[Momac]

Since the boat is being lifted ashore it sounds like the cost is minimal if no fault is found ?
Even slight prop damage can cause vibration which can damage the bearings so I have taken the view that prop refurbishment is a lot cheaper than work on the outdrive.

 

[Mike k]

its inboard does that change your view Martyn?

 

[Momac]

I assumed it was sterndrive but even with shaft drive I expect vibration from a damaged prop can damage bearings.
Propeller refurbishment , if required, is not too expensive.

 

[Bandit]

Do I see you have a boat about 28ft single engine?

When you lift the boat check for movement on the cutless bearing if there is movement more than a mm or so it is worn and needs replacement, this can be a source of vibration.

Sometimes manaufacturers engine alignment isnt always all its cracked up to be, another source of vibration.

Check the prop carefully for damage, if damaged get it repaired by a good propeller repairer/ manufacturer.

Generally balancing a prop of this size is not necessary.

If you remove the prop check the prop is tight on the shaft and that the key and key way are in a good condition and not hammered, its worth bluing the prop if you have it off the shaft before you re fit it.

 

[Spi D]

Agreed. A full inspection of the driveline should be done. If prop still looks suspicious it should be checked. A great opportunity to have pitch controlled or altered as well..

 

[old_salt]

Not too far away from you is Bamford Engineering Stocport.
Link:-http://www.bamfordajax.com/
Tel:- 0161 480 6507 ask for Andrew Smith and explain I am sure he will help.
They have built small as well as large props.
Cheers David.

 

[Mike k]

many thanks to all respondents -do you know what kind of revs/speed would one get vibration if there was imbalance ?