Single or Duo prop.

[jon_bailey]

Now narrowed my boat choice down to two. Same make but different ages and accessories. Whilst I can make my mind up about most things, it is the differences between the drives that I am struggling with.

Both have Volvos but one has a 5.7 Gi driving a DX (Duo-prop) other has a 5.0 GL driving a SX (single prop). According to the sales literature then DX have faster acceleration, better top end speed, improved handling at low speed, improved fuel efficiency (at the same speed) etc etc.

My real question is, am I just buying a lot more hassle and cost with a duo-prop engine particularly when mated to a fuel injected monster, or is the extra complication worth it?

All advice greatly appreciated.

PS Athough older I am probably favouring the DX option at the moment.

 

[BrendanS]

Several people in my club have duo props and haven't reported any extra hassle. One big advantage is that they seem to slice through ropes (lobster pots etc) quite readily, and suffer far less in this respect than single prop boat


On a different note, you coming to the May meet? and I'm (haven't checked weather forecast yet) thinking of picking my boat up this Saturday if I can get everything organised in time

 

[BarryH]

For what its worth, I've used both drives, not in the same model of boat though, the Dou prop had the edge re the handling and speed etc. Slow speed manouvers were easier with the duo set up and the helm noticably more responsive. Less prop ventilation with the Duo as well.

As far as buying problems with the Duo, don't really know as I didn't pay for the servicing etc. It was a friends boat and he's not had any probs with it in the 5 years he's had it. The only down side is the cost of props if you want to change them and the cost for stainless is sky high, so I am told.

 

[jon_bailey]

Brendan,

I am certainly considering the May meet but was waiting for everyone to get there act together and decide on dates, itinerary etc before committing. Organising something in a brewery springs to mind! The only problem with not following the thread is that it becomes such a job to pick it up after a few days.

I am hoping to do a sea trial on Saturday or Sunday in Chichester. I seem to recall that this is close to where your boat has been repaired. Interesting logistics but could we do both?

 

[jon_bailey]

Fortunately the props are in good condition but I certainly wouldn't want to run aground, particularly with the stainless ones.

Thanks for the advice just what I wanted to hear.

 

[BrendanS]

Very close...Northney marina, which is inside Chichester harbour. Would make for interesting logistics, but certainly possible

 

[pistonbroke]

A 5.7 Volvo is lots of things, but it certainly ain't a monster.

 

[Bejasus]

Trying to get kim to give us a forum for the meet.

<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.arweb.co.uk/argallery/h00>http://www.arweb.co.uk/argallery/h00</A>

 

[jon_bailey]

A whole forum for a single meet.

Now that would be spoiling us.

 

[Bejasus]

Well it just keeps everything in one place really. We did it for xmas panto & Byron's Bash, so why not.

<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.arweb.co.uk/argallery/h00>http://www.arweb.co.uk/argallery/h00</A>

 

[jon_bailey]

Boat is at Chichester marina that is not so far away. I'll try to get some arrangements sorted (still got to finalise the price - although very close) and send a PM tomorrow.

 

[terryw]

My last boat (25 foot) had a 5.0GXi with SS Duoprop and handled well.
Now changed to 28 foot with twin 240HP turbo diesels. Originally it had Bravo 3 legs and although fast was a bit harsh, and difficult in slow manouvering. When it was dropped into gear it took-off like a scalded cat, and the power takeup was also harsh. It is now fitted with Bravo 1 legs, with larger 4 bladed prop. Initial engaging now much smoother, and more gradual takeup when the throttle is opened. It is now a completely different boat, and definately suited to the single props. Additional bonus is extra 4 knots at cruise revs.
I think the answer is it depends on the size of the boat, and the power of the engines. Try them both and see which feels better to you.

ps. I am fortunate that the dealer is doing the experimenting at his cost.

 

[DavidJ]

Just putting all the technical stuff aside. When you come to sell, single props will be something from the dark ages and totally 'unfashionable'. In consequence it will be a factor which ages you boat and will make it difficult to sell.
On the practical side duo's have been reliable with a couple of extra knots but crunches cost twice as much.
David