When your boat propeller is damaged, it can increase the chance of a collision and cause more damage to other parts of the boat.
Replacing a propeller is both dangerous and costly, so you want to make sure that you do it at just the right time.
Use this guide to find out when you should replace your boat propeller!
So whenever you’re ready to dive deeper into the concept of replacement boat propellers, keep reading.
Contents
What Happens When Your Boat Propeller Breaks?
When your boat propeller breaks, you have to replace it immediately. If not, the engine is at risk of overheating and suffering severe damage. You also risk putting yourself in harm’s way by running aground or hitting another vessel.
To make matters worse, if the blades don’t break off, they can still cause a lot of damage to your hull. This happens when they spin around without any propulsion behind them.
This also happens when someone attempts to start their boat with an un-towed broken prop. It also occurs when you run into full reverse throttle after hitting something underwater (known as “The Runaway”).
Furthermore, if the boat propeller blades are made out of aluminum, they can damage your engine. This is because it will create a spark when coming into contact with metal. This is why all boats with an inboard or stern drive motor should be equipped with rubber transmission mounts.
Replacing damaged boat propellers is not only dangerous, and it is also expensive if you need to call for professional services to tow your vessel back home. This is to significant damage being caused by running at high speeds without propulsion.
A replacement propeller may cost around $500-$800+ depending on where you go and where you buy them from. However, with the information in this article, you will be able to replace your propeller before any extreme outcomes.
Boat Propeller Functionality & Longevity
When it comes to the propeller, its functionality and longevity are crucial.
The boat’s engine relies on a well-functioning prop to produce optimum horsepower from pulling through the water. Whether you have a flat bottom, V hull, or catamaran – all boats will be affected by poor performance if your propellers aren’t working correctly.
Longevity as with any other mechanical device that requires regular use for optimal function. There is going to come a time when they need replacing.
This applies even more so with props, as their primary purpose is cutting through the resistance of moving water. This puts them under immense strain each day/hour/minute they are at work!
However, we try to prolong their lives by looking after them correctly. Eventually, they will need replacing.
When to Replace Your Boat Propeller
Generally, an average boater should expect their motorized boats’ boat props to last between three and five years. This depends on several factors such as:
- What type of boat is it?
- The hours the motorized ship has been used for?
- How well have they been looked after during their usage?
However, several signs will lead you to realize that your propeller needs replacing: If a majority of all of the blades have gone blunt – this can be caused by hitting rocks/objects underwater and could pose a severe threat if you haven’t noticed.
If any blade(s) bend out of shape – Not only does this affect how your engine runs but also considerably increases fuel consumption because more energy is being expended from trying to push through water with warped prop blades.
Blade wear (grooves and dings in aluminum props) both decrease performance & efficiency!
Propeller endplay (or TCC) – If your boat is vibrating excessively when you are at idle or slow speeds, this could be a sign that the propeller shaft and stern tube bearings need replacing as these symptoms often go hand in hand with each other.
Here are some of the most common signs you should be considering new boat propeller options:
- Ribbing or cracking on blades, prop hub & shaft
- Torn luff groove caused by hitting underwater objects that have become stuck in your propellers rotation path
- Excessive vibration when operating at a speed that may damage other components within the propulsion system, such as bearings and gears
If you notice any of these symptoms with your props, it is time to consider replacements! Even the slightest sign of such issues can be an excellent reason to purchase a replacement propeller, and you can get yours from deepblueyachtsupply.com.
Propellers for Specific Boats
If you have a flat bottom boat, it is best to replace the prop with an aftermarket one.
For V Hulls, make sure that your new propeller has blades that are angled up at around 30 degrees from horizontal as this will ensure good performance when traveling through water. This design also helps prevent cavitation when air bubbles form in the water surrounding each propeller blade.
Catamaran owners should choose a prop with blades that are angled down at around 30 degrees from horizontal to ensure good performance and stability through the water!
Inflatable boat propellers are best suited with a standard straight blade prop. This will ensure the highest level of performance when your motorized inflatable boats are in use!
Your Boat Propellers Safely Replaced
Now that you know when to replace your boat propeller, you are well on your way to avoiding any serious issues with your boat. Without proper maintenance and usage, most things go to waste. However, one can certainly extend their life cycle with adequate care.
If you would like more information about boats and their maintenance, please check out some of our related articles on the sidebar.
