Vortex prop

[fisheymikey]

hi I ordered the Vortex prop 15 pitch for my 1988 125

has anyone tried them? are they the same company with Michigan?

thanks

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Vortex prop

I used a Vortex 13 X 19 aluminum prop. It loaded the engine down a couple of hundred RPM less than the stock prop and as I remember, the top speed was either about the same or very slightly less than with the stock prop.

It is a very well finished prop but: Since I don't like aluminum props and I am all about speed, I sold another engine with the Vortex on it.

The webs inside the hub extend well into the rear of the prop hub and cause interference.so if you want to use the prop on your 1988, you will either need to mill the webs for clearance OR remove the anode. Later model Force engines used an anode without the very high walls so if you buy one of these, the prop will also fit.

There is supposed to be a special thrust washer for the Vortex but you can use the stock thrust washer.

 

[fisheymikey]

Re: Vortex prop

what do you recommend... if I remove the anode would that encourage rusting of my engine?

milling can I do it or need to bring to machine shop?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Vortex prop

If you boat in fresh water, simply remove the anode or buy the later type. There is almost nothing to rust and unless you get something like salt to complete a galvanic circuit, very little corrosion will happen in fresh water.

The prop webs are aluminum so if you have a drill press you can machine them down about 1/2 inch using a small end mill--about 1/4 to 3/8 diameter. Just don't "Hog" it. Take small cuts at a time so the mill won't chatter.

 

[pnwboat]

Re: Vortex prop

I've seen some anodes that have been cut down for propeller web clearance with a hacksaw. Crude but it works. Like Frank said, even if you remove the anode, you won't see any accelerated corrosion in fresh water.