when do you replace prop

[stinger1]

my prop has quite a few small nicks in it.<br />what determines when you should replace it.<br />is it safe to file the nicks to smooth the edges of the blades. it still propels the boat with no problem that i can notice.

 

[Walter]

Re: when do you replace prop

The more true the prop balance the better. YOU may not notice much difference but your prop shaft & bearings do. Filing rough edges is ok for a temporary fix or emergency situations (like if the fish are biting and the wife's given you permission to go!) Otherwise, buck up and get it repaired. <br /><br />Walt<br /><br />PS The beauty of having a spare prop is when one is in the shop getting repaired and an "emergency situation" as describe above arises...you can still go!

 

[stinger1]

Re: when do you replace prop

oh yea<br />i was spinning the prop by hand just to see how it felt. i noticed a dull klunking sound when i changed directions. i had not noticed this before. is this a bearing problem developing. no vibration and the spin is smooth other than the sound that it made when you spin th opposite direction

 

[Down South]

Re: when do you replace prop

Stinger, The noise you hear is normal. Most motors will make that same noise. Walter is dead on with the extra prop though. What I usually do is buy a good stainless prop to run and keep my aluminum for my spare.