Run them in a garbage can or other large tank of water. When you can get on the water, why not swap props and see if they push the same. Use a GPS to get accurate readings. When your only going 5-6 mph, it is really hard to tell.
I am an aluminum hull fan, glasses are to much work and after 25 years, no one wants them. Aluminium m boats carry a much higher resale value and require less HP and fuel to operate. Keep in mind, people don't like riding in the bow in a chop or on a cool day. Also the danger of burying that...
Not something most folks think about until it happens ! On my 16' I leave a small loop of the rear dock line hang over the side a few inches, enough that I can reach it from the water, but not enough line to get tangled in the prop. Between the line and the power trim, I can raise the engine...
The real key to a good cover is to keep it taught. Poles, tubes, snaps what ever it needs so no pools or puddles can developed. Covers are designed to shed water, not collect it.
Here in NW Ohio it is 65 degrees and yesterday reached 68. Heavy rain but no snow and cold ! The bad news is.....in a week or two, they are forecasting more below freezing temps and more snow ! Talk about dissapointment.......
Pumps are not that expensive, why not replace them with new, then you will know the pump and the wiring is good to go. Based on over 60 years of boating, don't cut corners, fix correctly what needs fixing....end result has been.... never needed a tow in all those years !
From my limited painting experience, bare aluminum requires a zink cromate type primer. Painted aluminium m just needs scuffed if old paint is sticking well. On my Jon boat I rolled then used rattle an spray for the tight spots a roller wouldn't go. No cracks in paint from cold or anything else...
Look for cleaning vinegar, 6% acid, has worked d well for me cleaning/ killing mold. Has not harmed anything so far and actually does a good job of cleaning. I add it into a spray bottle uncut and spray everything. A day or two later rinse it away.
