Alloy props. Polish or Paint?

[WillsPride]

G'day All, I have just located a 52 year old used alloy prop for my '67 Evinrude 60HP SportFour. I'm told it's called a 'Power Propeller'

The prop is in very good condition given its age-are props of this vintage painted just for looks, or as an anti corrosion measure? Should I sand back the original worn paint and repaint it? Would a quality epoxy enamel suffice?

Would polishing the alloy make any difference?

My boat is a trailer boat and is only in the water when being used. Both salt and fresh.

Cheers William.

 

[Scott Danforth]

stainless oem props were painted because the labor in polishing is expensive

the original paint was not high quality, more akin to a rattle can of krylon. it was intended to keep the prop looking clean until installed on the boat.

 

[82rude]

Scott another reason s/s props were painted was anti-theft .The thief's would basically pass by an old black prop assuming it was aluminum.I have a good friend that owns a prop shop and he,s run into that quite often.The owners are stating that they painted them for that reason..

 

[steelespike]

There was a post about polishing aluminum props to a bright finish and compare to un polished.
There indeed was a measurable improvement with the polished props but hardly worth the effort.

 

[WillsPride]

Thanks Guys A job for a rainy windy day when the boat stays in the drive! Boat Bling