Propeller Solutions

Maintain Proper Performance

Your propeller is a key factor in your boat’s performance and your satisfaction, so don’t overlook it. Keep up with prop maintenance to ensure peak power, performance and efficiency.

Give your prop a good look as part of your pre-launch checklist. Are there any bends, nicks, cuts or cracks? Any of these will rob performance and potentially cause damaging vibration to your outboard.

If found, get the prop examined and repaired by a qualified propeller repair facility. Your local Yamaha Marine dealer is a great place to start.

Common Propeller Issues

Decreased Performance
If you’ve noticed a decrease in your boat’s performance, but your outboard checks out fine, you’d do well to suspect your prop. Suspended grit, sand and silt in the water slowly eat away at your propeller’s edges. When this happens, your prop may look perfect, but the worn edges can seriously degrade performance.

Beware of Corrosion
Even stainless-steel propellers can experience surface discoloration. But it’s easy to clean and protect most props. Here’s are a few methods for how to clean a stainless-steel boat propeller:

Rough Cast Mag Wheel Cleaner. Spray on (use caution near painted surfaces) and do not let dry or sit more than 30 seconds. Agitate with dish sponge, rinse thoroughly, dry and apply paste wax.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Hydrogen Peroxide, or Calcium Lime & Rust Remover. For spot cleaning: spray on or put on a rag and wipe over stained area (do not allow to dry). Rinse thoroughly, dry and follow up with paste wax.
Mild Rubbing Compound or Metal Polishing Paste. For difficult stains: apply to pad and rub in a circular motion until stain is diminished. Buff with a clean cloth and apply paste wax.

Protect the Prop Shaft
Periodically remove your propeller(s), check for fishing line wrapped around the prop shaft, then grease the prop shaft with a high-quality, high-pressure marine-formula grease, like Yamalube® Marine Grease or Molybdenum Grease. This will help make it easier to get the prop off next time, especially in saltwater.

When re-installing your propeller, make sure to torque the prop nut to the manufacturer’s specification, and always use a new cotter pin rather than re-using the old one.

Be Prepared with Multiple Props
Just like a spare tire, you may need more than one prop. Whether you demand different levels of performance or just want a spare for emergencies; having a second propeller is a very wise choice.

Videos:

Propellers with Steve Pennaz

Cleaning Your Propeller Pt. 1

Cleaning Your Propeller Pt. 2

Cleaning Your Propeller Pt. 3

Your Outboard at Your Fingertips

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