small crack and bend in prop need comments...

[rsfeller]

i must admit i've had bigger bends on props but this one has a chunk the a 1/2 inch wide taken out of it with a small tear/crack another 1/4 into the aluminum. it's a 15x17 on a V/P AQ125A (115hp). i straigtened the slight bend in the prop with a pair os pliers... <br /><br />my question is this: how bad am i? i don't want to pull the boat at this time, as i have only 3 more boating weekends to go. (no trailer big hassle). if i pull i'm done for the season...<br /><br />anyone run 4000rpm at 20 knots and feel this will or will not hurt the balance of the engine/drive. if feels normal and i have not noticed any lose of speed or rpm changes... <br /><br />thanks to all for constructive oppinions of people in the know, not arm chair quarter backs like me! shawn

 

[Boomyal]

Re: small crack and bend in prop need comments...

put on your spare prop!!!! DO NOT run the one you described. It WILL put tremendous strain on all components. The risk is not worth the convenience of leaving it as is. Plus with a crack already started it may not take much to make it even worse.

 

[boat doc]

Re: small crack and bend in prop need comments...

I personally would not run that, unless it was to idle it to a trailer. A bad vibe could do some major internal damage to your o/d

 

[rsfeller]

Re: small crack and bend in prop need comments...

thanks for the comments.<br /><br />how hard would it to do the prop in 3 feet of clear water?<br /><br />i figured i'd need to pull the boat (which is not easy for me at this point in the season). while george jackson over at goboatingamerica suggested i just do it in the water, and his oppinions are highly recommened.<br /><br />i was concerned as i read the shaft needs preped with graphic or such for seizing reasons. i've only got another month before the boat comes out for the season, so if i did it in the water i could pull it 30 days later and prep it correctly.<br /><br />shawn

 

[boat doc]

Re: small crack and bend in prop need comments...

it is not rocket science, but may be a little difficult for a first timer, (have you ever had a girl in the dark, ya gotta feel for it)

 

[record hunter]

Re: small crack and bend in prop need comments...

personaly I think you would be o.k. If you do not feel any vibration in the boat your probably o.k. But you have to be in tune with her. I loved the boat doc reply I remember way back then but that is another story. To change the prop especially if it is in the lake piece of cake. I had to change mine one time in 4 foot seas all the while looking for sharks I know you can do it good luck

 

[rsfeller]

Re: small crack and bend in prop need comments...

thanks guys.<br /><br />yea i think the great lakes are bit less dangerous than shark infested water! we don't have killer catfish or anything...<br /><br />i am in tune with the sound and feel of my boat, my wife will tell you "to in tune", as i get peranoid of any small changes!<br /><br />i'll try to order a prop today and get her changed in the water.<br /><br />i don't have a V/P repair manual. anyone got a diagram or proedure for a Volvo Penta 270 lower unit prop change? it's got a cone with two wholes i can see that will see. additionally, is there any part that MUST be replaced such as a washer or spacer?<br /><br />thanks.