How to tell if it's time to replace a prop

Natty Light

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 11, 2012
Messages
120
14 1/2 diameter
23 pitch
stainless steel
2002 Yamaha 150 VMAX 2 stroke

I recently ran aground a few times coming home at night. I was going very slow (less than 10 mph) due to low visibility so none of the impacts were abrupt. One of them was firm enough to stall the engine though. The next morning I ran the boat to make sure everything was ok. It ran great at high speed. At idle speed I thought I could feel a deep vibration that would come and go. I wasn't severe and perhaps I am just being paranoid because I am new to boating. If I would have damaged something would it be obvious? How can i check to make sure my prop and shaft are still in good shape?
 

steelespike

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 26, 2002
Messages
19,069
Re: How to tell if it's time to replace a prop

Did you look for damage. Pictures would help.
You could remove the prop and rotate the shaft near an indicator like a screw driver held close to the shaft to note any oscillation
 

Natty Light

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 11, 2012
Messages
120
Re: How to tell if it's time to replace a prop

Thank you for your reply.
I examined the prop and saw no sign of damage.
 

jkust

Rear Admiral
Joined
Aug 2, 2008
Messages
4,942
Re: How to tell if it's time to replace a prop

Put your spare prop on and run it for comparison.
 
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