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Need a propeller repaired? Get a quote by e-mail Need to buy a propeller? Get a quote by e-mail Contact us , we can help.

We bring to you over 35 years in prop repairs, sales and applications. We repair aluminum, stainless steel, nibral, and bronze propellers. All repairs are done in our shop, usually between 2-4 days, then shipped directly back to you. Propeller repairs usually cost 50% - 75% less than the price of a new propeller.

We specialize in the repair and modification of Hi Performance Stainless Steel Propellers.

We sell New Aluminum, Stainless Steel and Nibral Propellers

We sell quality brand propellers from these manufactures: PowerTech, Michigan Wheel, Vortex, Mercury, Volvo, Ballistic, Solas, Rubex, Turbo, OJ Props, Acme, etc..

Reconditioned Stainless Steel and Aluminum Propellers<

We have a listing of reconditiond props that we have reconditioned for sale. These props arrive and are sold, so our current stock is always changing. We have a list of these props and the date we added them to the site for your convenience. If you are looking for a hard to find propeller, contact us and we will be on the look out for you.

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Our business hours are changing over the holidays. Click to read more.

Notice of Holiday Business Hours

Please be aware of the following changes in normal business operations due to the upcoming holidays. We will be closed on the dates listed below, and propellers will not be serviced. During this time, you may call the business phone and leave a message. Calls will be returned as soon as possible, with expected delays.

Last Day to Receive Props: Nov. 30, 2023

Closed: Nov. 23–26 & Dec. 8–Jan. 22

Normal Business Hours and Operations Resume: Jan. 23, 2024

Welcome to Mark's Prop Shop

Finest workmanship. Fastest service.

Damage? No Problem.

Dented, dinged, and dirty. If your propeller has seen better days, it's time for a repair. We've got you covered. Mark will have your prop back in tip-top shape in no time.

Mark brings your damaged prop back to life, expertly reshaping the blades and polishing to perfection. Add our blueprinting service to maximum your propeller's performance.

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Experience our exclusive line of propellers in 3-blade, 4-blade, or 4-blade XL.

Boat Propellers: Repairs & Replacements

Your boat’s propeller connects the engine to the water, just as tires connect your car to the road. Unlike tires, your propeller is not going to wear with use but it is prone to damage, which can range from a few nicks in the blade edges to catastrophic damage from a severe bottom strike. The soft propeller hub can also be damaged in a bottom strike, or just from age. Even minor damage can impact boat performance, so it’s important to take good care of your propeller.

Caring For Your Boat's Propeller

• Complete regular inspections.
• Repair or replace the prop when damaged or bent.
• If needed, replace the rubber or plastic hub that sits between the propeller and the propshaft.
• Always carry a spare propeller onboard—just like a spare tire.
• When in doubt, call in the professionals for assistance.

Boat Maintenance Guide

Regular Inspection

Get in the habit of inspecting your propeller during the boating season. With the transmission in neutral you’ll be able to turn the prop (be safe: always remove the engine kill switch before inspecting the propeller). Inspect for bent blades or nicks in the leading edge. If you don’t see any obvious damage, carefully run your fingers along the leading edge of the prop blades and check for burring, which can occur if the prop is run through sand. You can remove these burrs yourself with a mill bastard file.

Boat Propeller Repair

If prop blades are bent or otherwise damaged, the prop should either be replaced or repaired. Obviously with those bent blades the prop is not going to function properly and boat performance will suffer, but the damaged prop is also likely now unbalanced, which can cause vibration at high speed which can lead to more problems.

A good propeller shop can restore a prop with pretty significant damage, often by welding new material onto the affected blades and then grinding and shaping the blades back to original geometry.

A typical repair to an aluminum prop will cost $100 to $150, but expect to pay $200 to $400 to repair a stainless steel prop. It may be more cost-effective to simply replace a damaged aluminum prop, but when a new stainless prop costs $400 to $700, the repair makes economic sense. Prop repair requires special skills, tools and experience, so most marine dealers have a relationship with a prop shop and send propellers out for service.

Any time you strike bottom hard enough to damage the prop, you should also have a dealer inspect the propeller shaft. If the shaft was also bent on impact it will need to be repaired or replaced.

Most props have a rubber or plastic insert between the propeller and the propshaft. This insert is designed to give way on a hard prop strike to protect the gearcase from shock—it’s cheaper to replace the prop than the gearcase. If your boat does not move when you apply the throttle, or will only move slowly, you may have “spun the hub.”

A prop shop can usually replace a spun rubber hub. The plastic hub inserts used on many new props are simple to replace, and you can carry a spare and replace the plastic insert yourself on the water. The rubber hubs will also deteriorate over time and may need to be replaced even if you don’t strike bottom.

Always Carry a Spare

A spare prop is just like a spare tire—a replacement you can use in an emergency. If your prop is too badly damaged to get you home, replacing the prop is an alternative to getting towed back to shore. Many boaters buy a used prop of the correct size to carry as a spare. You can use an affordable aluminum prop as the back-up to a stainless prop. You’ll also need a propeller wrench to remove the prop nut, and should carry a spare nut, thrust washer and any other hardware required to replace your prop just in case you drop a part into the water. Practice changing the prop in the marina or with the boat on a trailer so you know the drill. Changing a prop at sea can be tricky if the water is rough; if that’s the case it may be safer to call for a tow.

Read Next: Boat Motor Maintenance & Engine Care

Looking for more on maintenance and repairs? Read...

• Basic Boat Maintenance Guide
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• How to Winterize a Boat
• Boat Repair: Choosing a Marine Mechanic
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Fixing Boat Propeller Problems

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Here's how to diagnose and remedy common problems.

Results of hitting a rock or a hard place.

With all due respect to the captain, the propeller drives the boat. Its condition determines how fast you go, how much fuel you burn, how long your engine will last, how smoothly your boat rides, how quickly you pull a wakeboarder out of the water, and perhaps even if you'll get back to the dock at the end of the day.

Very few marinas or boat dealers fix propellers themselves; it’s simply too complicated. Your marina sends your prop to a prop shop or you can visit one yourself. Make sure that shop is reputable, preferably a member of the National Marine Propeller Association, the only organization in the world that provides training and certification for the propeller-repair industry. Gone are the days when props could be repaired with an anvil, a welding machine, and a coat of paint. Today's props require trained technicians to make them run right. While prop makers today deliver accurately sized props, there is still much that can be done to fine-tune them for a particular application. So, take a peek at your propeller. Here are some of the things to look for.

Flat Tore Up

This is pretty easy to identify. Look for damaged and bent blades and chunks of metal missing. The design of most propellers these days is very sophisticated, so damage makes your boat slower and less fuel-efficient. Smooth operation is also compromised, which could damage expensive engine parts such as seals, motor mounts, bearings and struts, and drive shafts. If it looks damaged, it is, and should be repaired or replaced immediately.

Looks Good, Works Badly

There are several versions of this. One is the "spray can recondition." You've probably seen this if you've looked at used boats. All that shiny paint looks great, so the prop must have been just repaired or might even be brand new. Look more closely and you'll see edges where the old paint ends and new paint begins. That's a sure sign that somebody's trying to hide something. You might see little bends or nicks in the blade tip edge or scratches in the surface. A good prop shop won't leave that behind. Plan on fixing or replacing that prop before you run the boat.

Look for repair numbers stamped on the prop. They're easily distinguishable from original part numbers. On aluminum props, you may see black "pot metal" filler or porosity from a welding repair, areas that are prone to failure. A repaired prop isn't a bad thing but it's something you should notice so you're not disillusioned when something that looks good goes bad.

Often, especially with inboards, it's difficult to see a big bend that starts at the root of the blade where it meets the hub. All blades look the same and there's no obvious damage but one or two may be completely out of "index," which is the spacing between blades, or "track," the relative height of each point. On a four-blade prop, for example, each point on each blade should be at a 90-degree angle and at the same relative height as the same point on a neighboring blade. It's hard to see this, which is a good reason to have your props checked every time you haul your boat or when at your dealer for regular service. Most prop shops do inspections for little or no charge.

Little Crack? Big Bad Is Next

If not fixed, a cracked blade will break off and the prop becomes scrap.

Ignoring tiny nicks in the propeller edge is a big deal. Those nicks can create stress risers, areas that are more prone to crack as the propeller blade works through the water. You can smooth out those areas yourself with a file, but be careful not to grind too much. You'll alter the blade geometry and kill efficiency. Best to let a professional handle that.

Many stainless-steel props are heat treated to improve strength, a process that can make them brittle and susceptible to cracks. Carefully inspect stainless props and look for hairline cracks, especially in the leading and trailing edges. Most props so afflicted can be repaired, but if you don't fix it, you'll end up losing the blade, damage that cannot be repaired. Prevention costs much less than the cure.

Worn Won't Work

All the blades look the same, so what's the problem? Often, they're all worn evenly. Look for blades that aren't naturally rounded at the tip or are worn to a point. Feel the edges, but be careful. Wear makes them sharp. On the other hand, the tips may be particularly blunt on the leading edge, where the prop makes first contact. Paint worn evenly is also a clue.

If you know the design diameter of your propeller, you can eyeball its actual dimension by measuring from the center of the hub to the tip of one blade (the radius) and multiply by two to get the approximate diameter. Diameter and blade area are two of the most critical aspects of propeller design. Missing material causes higher rpm and diminished efficiency, potentially damaging the engine at worst, and slowing the boat and using more fuel at best. A prop shop can build up diameter and blade area to original specs. If too much is gone, especially on aluminum props, it's often best to buy a new one.

Example of pitting from corrosion that has damaged this prop beyond repair.

A metal propeller soaking in saltwater (or any other electrolyte) can suffer a form of corrosion that appears to "eat" away the metal, leaving it pitted where some of the alloy has left the metal structure.

What is really happening is that a cathodic (more noble) metal is taking the less noble (anodic) metal in. To see where a metal stands in the order of cathodic to anodic elements, check the galvanic series chart, which lists metals in order of their nobility with the least noble at one end and the most noble at the other. With a bronze alloy prop, which is an alloy that can contain copper, lead, tin, zinc and other elements, less noble metal can be stolen (leached out) from the alloy and taken to another metal. The vehicle for this transfer is the "electrolyte" and, in the case of a boat, that is saltwater or brackish water.

Another factor affecting this process is the bonding system of the boat or the anodic protections. If this activity is not controlled by a bonding system and/or the use of sacrificial anodes, you'll see pitting all over the blades. Bronze propellers can develop a pink tint that is a symptom of the "theft" of anodic metal in the bronze alloy and, when you rap a blade, instead of a resounding, bell-like "ding," you'll hear a dull "thud." Unchecked, the process can leave prop blades of any metal alloy looking like Swiss cheese.

In that case, your propeller is dead. Especially on a bronze or aluminum propeller, where the missing material likely can't be adequately restored by welding, because the base metal is too corrupted. (Nibral and stainless-steel propellers may be salvageable.) Critical areas, now brittle and soft, eventually crack and fail. The only option is to replace the propeller. Carefully check other underwater gear like shafts, struts, rudders, and sterndrives and get to the root of the problem.

Every marine engine has a recommended operating rpm range, and the correct propeller turns the engine within that range. A typical outboard, for example, might be rated at 5,000 to 6,000 rpm and the proper propeller turns within that range at wide-open throttle (WOT). (Check your owner’s manual for the actual WOT rpm range for your engine.)

All of the visual symptoms identified so far can cause the rpm to be too high or low. Worn blades, for example, cause high rpm and prop repair solves many rpm problems, but it's not uncommon for boats to have improperly sized props in good condition, especially as boats get heavier, motors get weaker over time, and boat owners fiddle with diameter and pitch to resolve perceived or real performance problems.

In that case, the rule of thumb is that increasing pitch two inches decreases rpm 400 to 500, while decreasing pitch two inches has the opposite effect. That's pretty much true for all outboards. Inboard applications, with myriad gear reductions and engine rpm, are a little trickier to compute. In general, whatever percentage of rpm you want to increase or decrease, make the same corresponding percentage adjustment in the pitch up or down.

A good prop shop can adjust the pitch on most props up or down about two inches depending on the material. More than that usually requires a new propeller. Diameter can also be adjusted to influence rpm, but outboard props are typically designed with specific diameters that work well with each pitch, and maximized diameter is almost always critical. Best to work with pitch first and adjust diameter only as a last resort. The good news is that most of these problems are visible to the naked eye. A simple inspection makes your drive train last longer and gives you one less thing to worry about as you enjoy the pleasures of boating.

A surveyor can develop a preliminary opinion on propeller problems by devising a simple "eyeball" test method. Here a clamp attaches to a metal rule (a section of bar stock or a length of metal rod works, too) to the leading edge of the rudder. The prop is rotated by hand and each blade tip is observed as it passes the straight edge. Blade anomalies are revealed by variations in blade tip clearance as the prop is turned. It’s only a rough field test but, short of a high-tech evaluation, it sets a basic reference point for spotting problems that may require the prop be sent to a shop. A super-simple test to detect obvious blade discrepancies consists of firmly and steadily holding a ruler or even a screwdriver (tip down) vertically above the prop and against the hull bottom while turning the prop.

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OUR CURRENT LEAD TIMES ON REPAIR WORK IS 2 WEEKS

PROP REPAIR

We specialize in boat propeller repair for many different types of metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and nickel bronze. Because we are accustomed to very precise welding and fabricating orders, our repairs will make your propeller as good as new.

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Clara Morgan

• October 25, 2023
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The Ultimate Guide to Propeller Repair and Maintenance

A boat’s propeller is its driving force, propelling it through the waters and ensuring a smooth voyage. Over time, like any other machinery, propellers can sustain damages that hinder their performance. This guide aims to delve deep into the realm of propeller repair, boat prop maintenance, and finding the right propeller repair shop.

Understanding the Basics: What is a Propeller?

A boat’s propeller, commonly referred to simply as a “prop,” is a type of fan that transmits power by converting rotational motion into thrust. They are crucial for the boat’s movement, directly influencing speed, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.

Common Causes of Prop Damage

• Striking Submerged Objects : One of the leading causes of damage. It could be anything from a log to underwater rocks. Even a minor strike can bend the propeller blade, affecting its performance.
• Corrosion : Saltwater environments, in particular, can cause corrosion if the propeller isn’t adequately protected or if the protective layer wears off.
• General Wear and Tear : Regular use can lead to small dings and nicks that might not seem like a big deal initially but can affect performance over time.

Signs You Need Boat Prop Repair

• Vibration while the boat is in motion.
• The boat consumes more fuel than usual.
• Noticeable decrease in the boat’s top speed or acceleration.
• Visible dings, nicks, or bends on the propeller.

DIY Prop Repair Vs. Professional Propeller Repair Shop

While minor prop repairs can sometimes be managed by boat owners, significant damages often require a professional touch.

DIY Prop Repair :

• Suitable for very minor nicks or dings.
• Requires basic tools and perhaps a propeller repair kit.
• Can be time-consuming and might not achieve professional-level results.

Professional Propeller Repair Shop :

• Ideal for extensive damages, bent blades, or hub issues.
• Equipped with specialized tools and machinery for precision work.
• Trained technicians ensure the prop is balanced and restored to optimal performance.

Steps Involved in Professional Prop Repair

• Inspection : A thorough examination to determine the extent of the damage.
• Straightening : Bent blades are delicately straightened using hydraulic presses.
• Welding : For larger nicks or missing chunks, welding restores the propeller’s shape.
• Balancing : Ensures the prop spins correctly without causing undue vibration.
• Polishing : Gives the propeller a smooth finish, enhancing performance and aesthetics.

Maintenance Tips to Avoid Frequent Prop Repair

• Regular Inspection : Check for visible damages or signs of corrosion.
• Clean After Use : Especially if sailing in saltwater, rinse the propeller with fresh water.
• Use Protective Coatings : Protects against corrosion and minor abrasions.
• Be Mindful : Avoid shallow areas and navigate cautiously in unfamiliar waters.

Choosing the Right Propeller Repair Shop

• Experience : Look for a shop that’s been in the business for years, showcasing their expertise.
• Techniques : Ensure they employ the latest methods and machinery for prop repair.
• Customer Reviews : Check feedback from other boat owners for insights on the quality of service.
• Pricing : While you don’t want to skimp on quality, make sure the pricing is competitive.

Proper care and maintenance can significantly reduce the need for frequent prop repairs. However, when the time comes, opting for a reputable propeller repair shop ensures your boat’s most vital component is in the best hands. Whether you call it propeller repair, prop repair, or boat prop repair, one thing is sure: maintaining your prop’s health is paramount for a smooth sailing experience.

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Mr G Propeller is a full service prop shop with years of experience repairing and rebuilding propellers of all types and sizes.

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Thomas Marine Propeller

Precision repair – tuning – sales – and specification.

Thomas Marine Propeller is a company dedicated to excellence in all phases of our business. We utilize the Prop Scan system to ensure PRECISION REPAIR – TUNING – SALES – and SPECIFICATION of Marine Propellers. The Prop Scan system allows us to specify the correct new propeller for your boat, or to evaluate the propellers you have now and repair and tune them to give “better than new” PERFORMANCE. The Prop Scan system allows us to optimize your propellers for maximum performance with your hull type and drive train.

Thomas Marine Propeller adheres to the highest standards of quality control and all work is done utilizing ISO 484/2 Accuracy Classes. Any new Marine Propeller sold by us will be inspected using the Prop Scan system. The propellers will then be brought up to Class 2 ISO 484/2 accuracy before being delivered to the customer.

Click here for our free propeller analysis form . You may also bring or send your propeller to Thomas Marine Propeller, Inc. and we will do a complete analysis of your propeller up to 36 inches  in diameter at no charge on our Prop Scan equipment. (There will be a charge to measure and evaluate larger props because of the set up time required.)

Excellence in Customer Service is to be expected when you deal with Thomas Marine Propeller. Give us a call, or send us an email, and put us to the test. We serve the Western United States and offer pickup and delivery at selected boat yards in Northern California, including the Monterey Bay Area, San Francisco Bay Area, and the Sacramento Delta Region.

• TMP specializes in all types of inboard marine propellers up to 120 inches in diameter and up to seven blades.
• TMP also repairs and tunes Mercury Bravo 3 Props, Volvo Duo Props, Mercury Zeus Drive Props, Volvo IPS Drive Props, and Stainless Steel I/O Props. We stock and sell PowerTech Stainless Steel, and PowerTech Aluminum propellers. TMP also stocks and sells ACME Marine propellers for wakeboard and ski boats. An ACME Marine propeller will maximize the performance of your boat!

Our hours of operation are 5:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Fridays from 5 a.m. to 11a.m. We are also available for appointments beyond our normal business hours to accommodate our customer’s schedules.

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Phone: (916) 852-8548

Email: info@ ThomasMarinePropeller.com

Thomas Marine Propeller 11430 Sunrise Gold Circle Suite 15 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742

In The News

• Vic Giacalone’s Vexing Problem Solved - 04.22.13
• A “True Believer” in TMP’s work - 08.20.12
• “Excellent work” for Captain Richard Henry Martin - 06.25.10
• Happiness with the work done by Thomas Marine Propeller - 11.18.09
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Boat propeller repair specialists. New and used propeller sales. Lowest prices on propeller repair. Huge selection of new propellers. Boat propeller, propeller, marine propeller, prop, props, propeller repair, Mercopellor, duo prop, tohatsu, nissan, Bravo, Mirage.

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The following links will take you to a listing of boat propellers we stock for the various engines and stern drives. There is also a link to our current repair price list. If there are any questions you have about our service or a particular product, please call us on the above toll free number.

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Our major suppliers of high quality stainless steel boat propellers are and . We stock aluminum, stainless steel, and bronze inboard boat propellers made by them. We have been one of their distributors for many years and are highly satisfied with their products.

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ACME PROPELLERS

Keeping boaters on the water since 2008 the leading internet retail discounter of new aluminum and stainless steel propellers. we pride ourselves on personal, professional, and knowledgeable service., prop md-your prop doc, the leading internet retail discounter of new aluminum and stainless steel propellers. we pride ourselves on personal, professional, and knowledgeable service., browse new propellers, prop finder, hardware & accessories, repair your propeller, view services.

At PropMD we offer great products, superior workmanship, and fantastic Customer Service, and when that comes with a competitive price, you have found why PropMD is different from others. Our trained staff  is on hand every day to answer questions and find solutions to even the most challenging prop situations. We work hard to get you what you need fast, and get repairs turned around quickly. If you are local, please stop in and visit any time. If you are considering an online purchase, give us a call. We are happy to answer any questions you may have to prove why we are number #1.

Hear From Our Customers

After damaging the prop on our inboard wakeboard boat, I found PropMD online. I called in and spoke to one of the associates about buying a new one or having the damaged one repaired. The associate was knowledgeable and helpful and walked me through the repair process. They sent me a shipping label and I shipped it to them. I got the prop back in about a week and a half (including shipping days). Prop looks great and back to the original condition… Great Service!

Great! Highly recommend! Prop MD was spot on with a new 4 blade prop for my boat. Had to try two different pitches to get it dialed-in (we actually ended up with the one they recommended in the first place). My boat is at my cabin so trying out props is no easy thing. However, Prop MD was very accommodating. Rare to find such great customer service these days!!

Just got back my repaired 25 year old ss prop and boy what a great job — looks like new. Fast shipping and fast turn around. Great price and I am so Happy with the work done!

Brought my 30 year old Mercruiser outdrive in for skeg repair and a cav plate weld repair. They were extremely reasonable in price and exceptional in quality work! I drove 2 hours to drop my outdrive off here and wouldn’t take it any other place! Thank you!

Prop MD has delivered time and again. Always on time, great work, fair prices and easy to deal with. I have had several prop repairs, a skeg repair and bought a few props from them, always a great experience.

Was just in their new location. Fantastic customer service. Got a bit of an education on prop care and maintenance, really appreciated by this new boat owner. Would 100% recommend this business.

• Guide to Boat Propeller Repair vs. Replacement

Owning a boat can be an expensive undertaking. When something breaks, your heart might sink at the repair shop’s estimate to replace it. That’s especially true when there’s a problem with your propeller.

At Michigan Wheel , we understand that there are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to boat prop repair. To help clear things up, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about outboard propeller repair. We’ll also dive into the difference between prop material, specifically aluminum versus stainless steel props, and what they mean in terms of likelihood of repair.

Is it hard to Repair a Boat Propeller?

If you look at an outboard boat prop, you might already know the answer to this question. Boat Propellers are very intricate, brittle, and difficult pieces to work with. An outboard propeller repair is very difficult, as it requires precise straightening, welding, and reconfiguring of the prop. That being said, the prop repair process certainly isn’t as easy as slapping on some duct tape and calling it a day, and the repair cost typically isn’t cheap but could be more cost efficient than replacing it. If your prop has been damaged, it’s vital that you have your prop repaired because even a minor issue with it can severely affect boat performance.

Props go through a ton of stress underwater and they’re the sole reason your boat moves at all. An improperly repaired propeller will ruin your boating experience and could leave you stranded in the middle of your ride. Below, we will outline some tips for proper propeller maintenance & care, which can help you (and your propeller) in avoiding reduced performance due to damage and the hefty repair prices that can come with prop damage.

Best Practices for Propeller Care & Preventative Maintenance

I.) General Maintenance

It’s certainly easier to clean and repair most complex items piece-by-piece, and the same applies for a boat prop. The first step in cleaning or repairing your boat propeller is to separate your propeller from the prop shaft.

Doing this allows you to see if there’s anything caught up in the prop shaft, such as a fishing line. If you see a fishing line, or anything foreign upon separating the propeller from the prop shaft, carefully remove it. The National Marine Propeller Association (NMPA) recommends doing this after every second or third trip.

Once that is done, move on to examining your prop shaft and seal. It is vital to check your seal for any damage because it is the seal that prevents water from entering the gear case – which is crucial when it comes to your boat’s motor running properly. If all looks good with your prop shaft and seal, you can put your propeller back together. Ensure that you are reapplying grease to it to keep the area lubricated and running smoothly. In addition to re-greasing the propeller when putting it back together, make sure the propeller nut is tightly secured and that you’ve used a new cotter pin to keep everything in place.

II.) Carry a Spare Prop

Similar to how you always keep a spare tire in your car, you should always keep a spare propeller in your boat, since the alternative is getting towed back to shore. Your spare prop doesn’t even necessarily have to be the most high-quality stainless steel prop, it can simply be one that will suffice just for your ride back home. Most people buy a used prop that is the correct size just to have as a spare. However, it’s important to note that it is tricky to change a boat prop depending on how rugged the weather is. In the event that you’re caught in rough water, it is smarter to go ahead and call for the tow.

III.) Repair or Replace Bent Props

If you either hit a hefty sandbar or hit a large object that causes your propeller to bend, it’s important to get it taken care of right away. Propeller blades that are bent are bad for your boat for two reasons: 1) your engine will not run as well with bent blades, and 2) bent prop blades cause an imbalance in your boat, which can lead to catastrophic damage to internal parts of your boat – such as the transmission. Something to note in repairing is to make sure the repair technician does not file down the prop blade edges, as that will reduce its diameter.

So, what should you do if you think you’ve bent your prop blades? First, give your prop a good visual examination to assess any damage that you can spot with the eye, in addition to measuring the blade placements. You’ll also want to check on the prop shaft and assess it for any damage. Most importantly, though, you should take your prop to a professional team, as they have experience evaluating prop damage, as well as the expertise to get your prop back in tip-top shape.

A Prop Shop will be able to tell you whether your prop is repairable or if the damage has necessitated buying a new prop entirely.

Does Prop Material Matter?

We can’t stress this enough: the material of your boat propeller is significant when it comes to whether you can repair the prop.

In our experience, die-cast props usually can’t be repaired. They aren’t strong enough and typically break apart during the straightening process. On top of that, they’re especially brittle and hard to work on. Bad news here is that a lot of original equipment propellers are made of die-cast materials. However, you’re in luck if your prop is made of sand-cast aluminum, as these propellers are stronger and can undergo the full repair process without failing.

So, when it comes to choosing between aluminum and stainless steel propellers, what things should you be considering? 

Keep reading, because below we will outline some key differences between stainless steel and aluminum props, alongside considerations you should make when choosing between the two.

Differences between Aluminum and Stainless Steel Props

I. Affordability & Durability

Aluminum propellers cost far less than stainless steel – often costing only a fraction of what a stainless steel prop costs. However, affordability is a double-edged sword when it comes to durability and longevity; an aluminum prop isn’t nearly as strong as a stainless steel prop. This is because a stainless steel prop has five times more stress tolerance when compared to an aluminum prop, meaning its blades are stronger, thus less prone to damage from minor impacts or run-ins with mud bottoms. As a result, an aluminum prop would be far more likely to sustain significant damage if it were struck. So, while you may initially pay less with an aluminum prop, you could potentially end up spending just as much in the future on prop repair costs if you aren’t careful.

II. Performance Level

If you’re looking to enhance the performance of your boat, a stainless steel propeller is the way to go. Stainless props have thinner (and far more durable) blades than aluminum props, and these thinner blades reduce drag, often enhancing acceleration and speed as a result. On the other hand, aluminum props’ thicker blades increase drag, slowing your boat down and reducing fuel efficiency.

III. Water Environment

How and where you’re using your boat is another factor to consider when choosing between an aluminum or stainless steel propeller. If you are often in shallow water, and more prone to hit objects or the sand itself with your boat propeller, it’s in your best interest to go with a stainless steel prop due to its likelihood of withstanding damage, as mentioned above.

Key Considerations in Choosing Propeller Material

Now that you know the key differences between aluminum and stainless steel props, you have a decision to make. While there is no ‘right’ choice, there certainly are tradeoffs that should be considered case by case (or boat by boat). Realistically, your decision is based on how each prop will impact your boat’s performance. You should ask yourself this series of questions when you are deciding on the right propeller material for your boat.

• Is your boat more often in a deep or shallow water environment?
• What is the level of performance you’re looking for?
• How and what do you use your boat for?
• How much are you willing to spend ?

Marine Propeller Repair – Can Anyone do it?

It’s worth mentioning that it takes a highly skilled prop shop to be able to fix an outboard propeller in a timely manner. There’s a lot of engineering that goes into the propeller design and repairing them is an arduous and skillful process.

If you trust the wrong person with this repair, you’ll waste a ton of time and money as they ruin your prop. We always suggest taking your propeller to an authorized propeller repair station if you want the best results. Luckily, you will find options for prop repair scattered across the country. The National Marine Propeller Association even provides a directory and interactive map to help you find a member propeller facility near you. Access the directory directly by clicking here , or the map by clicking here .

How Expensive Is an Outboard Prop Repair?

Replacement is much more expensive than a repair. As we mentioned, it’s typically not possible for a die-cast prop to be repaired. However, if you ask us to repair your sand-cast aluminum prop, you can expect to pay about 1/3 or 1/2 the cost of a new propeller. This can mean a lot more money in your pocket at the end of the day that isn’t spent on expensive repair costs. Less severe damage to your prop will translate to even less money that you’ll have to spend on minor repair costs.

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