Propellor Pitch

[rosta]

I took the props off my boat last week and found the port (LH rotation) one was bent beyond repair (its a long story). The boat has 2 x Volvo SX outdrives, the props are 17 x 14.5, engines are 2 x Volvo GLP-Ds (petrol) 125 hp each.

The Solas distributor hasn't got a replacement LH prop and won't be getting any more until the end of the year. So my question is do I pay the eye-watering price for a genuine Volvo (Solas) 17 x 14.5 propeller (about £350) or change to two new 19 x 14.5 Solas's (£288)?

Obviously I'd be £62 better off but I wondered what the change in prop pitch will give me in performance. Boating is mainly Thames (max 8kts) but with the odd foray out to sea a couple of times a year. Is a change from 17 to 19 pitch advisable?

 

[scottie]

Props are normally defined as dia x pitch so you are talking about a very big difference

If you only use the boat at low speed then it might be ok.

Dia is normally linked to HP & Revs whilst pitch is boat speed

So you would not be able to get the revs up to achieve full power

Shop around you may find what you are looking for

Try the usual repair shops steel developments castle marine wales etc

You could also try the USA

 

[rosta]

The prop diameter is 14.5 and the pitch is 17, Steel Developments can only offer a 19 pitch.

 

[scottie]

Makes more sense that way

 

[Kawasaki]

The prop diameter is 14.5 and the pitch is 17, Steel Developments can only offer a 19 pitch.

I was at Castle Marine in Caernarfon yesterday
They have a new prop supplier who deals in Stainless props they told me
I have a few stainless props for volvo outdrives knocking about too
I will check tomorrow what diam an pitch etc
OH!, maybe not tomorrow, just remembered, on the water from 09.00 hours till 21.30 hours
Will check Saturday!
I will contact Castle Marine for you anyway some time tomorrow when we come ashore.
The different pitch might not affect you too much whilst chunterin about but will make a difference at full chat!
Yeh, Castle may be able to help at sensible money
One can only ask!

 

[rosta]

Thanks Kwaks.

Good to see a fellow biker, I ride a Triumph myself.

 

[sunquest]

Try coastal rides in Dover, they often have many different props at competitive prices.