Newb Damaged Prop

[gregmsr]

Yes I did it, softly ran aground last fall. The prop struck what seemed to be small stones before I could de-throttle, raise and paddle away. Results were slightly boogered up edges and a little paint cracking at the hub but no signs of actually bending. Still looks normal. I filed the edges smooth, turned by hand and checked for bending or bent shaft. Looks ok. Took it back out and still seemed ok. No extra vibration, no difference I could tell.
Questions: Is this ok to run without professional examination? And I did not remove the prop and grease the shaft over the winter. This a big deal? I don't know when or if this has ever been done. Just bought boat.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Newb Damaged Prop

It's important if it's used in saltwater or if the boat is kept in the water. If you're puddle-jumping in inland waters, it's not such a big deal to grease the propshaft.

Your propshaft could be bent beyond spec. You wouldn't necessarily be able to see it. And any strike could distort the blades. But generally speaking, if the prop damage is minor and you can't see a wobble in the shaft, you should be okay.

 

[gregmsr]

Re: Newb Damaged Prop

Thanks. I'm puddle-jumping.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Newb Damaged Prop

Greasing the shaft is, for one reason, to keep the prop from siezing on the shaft...It also eliminates chatter and spline wear that cannot be fixed without a new prop-shaft.