Outboard Propeller Maintenance Tips

Like most outboard mechanical parts, a propeller won’t last forever. However, a little maintenance and simple care can make an outboard propeller last much longer.

Caring for marine propellers mostly comes down to being careful, and of course a little TLC can save you from having to frequently replace boat and outboard props. Here are some tips for making marine propellers last longer. 

Avoid Propeller Strikes

One of the most common ways propellers get damaged is by touching bottom and/or running aground. Simply put, if your boat’s propellers don’t hit anything, they’re less likely to get damaged. A depth finder is a good way to avoid contact with bottom surfaces. Depth finders let you know exactly how shallow the water is below, and alert you to underwater obstacles such as sandbars or rocks. 

Clean and Lube the Prop

Always wash your boat’s propeller(s) with water and mild detergent solution to remove any salt, oil or grease after each ride. Once the prop is clean, wipe the blades with a water repelling lubricant such as CRC 6-56 to protect it against corrosion.

Check Props for Corrosion and Wear

An outboard’s prop blades constantly encounter forces in the water that wear them down, and even the smallest scuffs can turn into major cracks. Regularly inspect propellers for minor wear. If you find any abrasions or nicks on the blade, use very fine-grit wet and dry paper to remove them. 

Regularly inspect each propeller for cracks or other signs of major damage such as deformed blades. Stainless steel propellers can be repaired provided the prop isn’t too badly damaged or worn. Aluminum props, on the other hand, can’t be repaired. 

The good news is that propellers are pretty affordable these days, and the cost of a buying a new prop will probably be about the same as having an old one repaired.