Prop question

[berth control]

One of my props is dinged and needs to be replaced. The other looks like new and I planed on keeping it. They are quicksilver three bladed aluminum 14x19 pitch, both RH. I did a search, and some of you guys reccomend balancing props that are new, and some reccomend replacing old props that still look good. Maybe that's just bronze props? On a boat as old as mine with alpha one's and 4-cylinders, what would you guys reccomend? I don't want to spend a lot of money, but realize the benefit of preventative mant. Thanks for the input!

 

[rondds]

Eric
I believe the only thing that renders those aluminum props worthless is if you spin a hub. If you turn the prescribed RPM at WOT and just need the ding repaired, take it to a prop shop. Probably the cheapest method. You'd be surprised how well these things can be repaired.

 

[tobnpr]

Ron is right.
A ding is nothing- have it fixed, it'll be good as new.

I'll add that IF you were going to replace the props- go with SS- you'll get better performance. Stick with aluminum if you run in rocky areas where you might go aground as SS doesn't "give" and can damage your lower unit, while an aluminum prop is will absorb the impact better.

 

[berth control]

Thanks Ron & Tobnpr - frank pm'd me with the same advice; much appreciated :thumbsup:. I did a search and read LOTS of different opinions, so i wasnt sure what was best. Sounds like aluminum is a little easier/cheaper to deal with than those NiBrAl deals you guys have! I thought I may have to get them balanced or "matched", but I guess that's not needed with aluminum.

I already got a new Vortex prop this evening and plan on using my dinged one as a spare, I didn't already have one. The Great lakes season is so short I don't want to spend any of it down for things that could be fixed in the winter.