All About Boat Propellers
Here at Boats.net, we’ve published multiple videos and articles related to various kinds of boat and outboard propeller repairs, particularly prop shaft seal replacements for Mercury and Yamaha outboards.
We also did a video series focused on the propellers themselves, including how to choose between aluminum and stainless steel props, and what the difference is between 3-blade and 4-blade propellers. For this playlist, we’ve curated our boat propeller video series, so you can have all the information you need about choosing props available in one spot. Here is our series of Boats.net videos all about propellers.
Boat Prop Video Series: Stainless Steel vs Aluminum Propellers
In the video above, our resident boat expert John Talley elaborates on the pros and cons of aluminum propellers and stainless steel props. The biggest difference between aluminum and stainless steel props is mostly found in the strength and rigidity of the material. Aluminum props are lightweight, and work fine with smaller boats of less horsepower. However, stainless steel props are recommended for larger boats with more horsepower, since they can easily bend and break the blades of an aluminum prop and change the pitch. Aluminum props are cheaper, but you may want to consider stainless steel for better power transfer to the water.
Boat Prop Video Series: 3-Blade vs 4-Blade Propellers
Should you get a 3-blade or 4-blade propeller? Most boats do fine with a 3-blade prop, but the way you use your boat may call for a 4-blade propeller instead. In the video above, John explains the difference between 3-blade and 4-blade props. A 3-blade prop offers less drag and possibly more speed, but the 4-blade prop has more bite and lower RPMs for better control in rough waters. Four-blade props also offer a greater capacity to push boats with more payload through the water with higher efficiency.
Related: 3-blade vs 4-blade Propellers
Boat Prop Video Series: How to Find Propeller Size
In the video above, John shows you how to find propeller sizes. Where the propeller’s diameter and pitch is found on the prop depends on the manufacturer. Finding a prop’s dimensions is vital when it comes time to replace a propeller. The prop dimensions can get harder to read as the prop starts to wear, so it’s important to know how to find the dimensions, write them down and have them ready for when it’s time to change it out.
Boat Prop Video Series: Benefits of Solas Propellers
What are the benefits of Solas brand propellers? In the video above, John discusses aluminum and steel Solas propellers, including how they can enhance the performance of your boat. Solas has been making propellers for applications across the marine industry since 1986. Their in-house R&D production means Solas props are made with rigorous standards that produce the highest quality propellers.
Solas steel props employ a squeeze technique during the production process, which eliminates empty spaces in the metal and helps produce a thinner, sharper prop that cuts the water more efficiently. Aluminum props from Solas use a special coating that adds to their durability, even in the most demanding saltwater environments.
Related: Why Choose Solas Propellers
