will prop guard make it cavitate??

[nforsyth]

I've got a military spec 16 foot inflatable driven by a 1989 Mariner 40 long shaft motor.<br /><br />I need to fit a prop guard to it for the protection of divers and equipment being towed.<br /><br />Will this make it more or less likely to cavitate, or won't it make a difference???<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

I'd bet if it's the kind that encircle the prop, it will cut down on cavitation, but also may bring down your top speed. What type is it?

 

[nforsyth]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

If you mean what type of prop guard, then I don't know because I haven't bought one yet!<br /><br />Do you reckon the solid wrap round type has advantages over the more open "wire" type?

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

I figured you might be talking something like this<br /><br />

 

[nforsyth]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

Yup, thats the sort of thing I had in mind.<br /><br />I think I would prefer this type;

<br /><br />but there is this type also;

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

The wire type will really kill your speed...

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

I like the cage type. Never seen that before. That would probably not affect performance as much as the others?? and offers more protection to beat. I'd do with that one if safty is the main concern..

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: will prop guard make it cavitate??

Each piece of wire has almost the frontal area of the steel ring PLUS round objects have the most drag hydrodynamicly and aerodynamicly. Yes its very good for certain applications but use the ring if ya can.