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Back to IndexPROPELLERS - CORROSION SOLUTION FOR MaxisOne answer to the rapid corrosion problems is the 3-blade feathering prop by Kiwiprops in New Zealand. The hubs are top quality marine bronze but the feathering blades are injection moulded from 40% glass reinforced Zytel™, which is an amazingly tough impact resistant Aramid. No blade corrosion, and there are other serious benefits from this prop! Under sail the blades are not geared together but wind-vane independently to their own local water flow. This also means they line up with the water-flow and not just with the shaft. The blades are light so there is almost nil shockwave to the transmission when engaging gear and especially going from forward to reverse and back when manoeuvring. Blades can be replaced easily at low cost in the very unlikely event of damage from heavy flotsam, and the pitch is adjustable externally. Performance under power is close to a 3-blade fixed prop so why tow a dustbin around. It is so much better than a fixed or folding 2-blade. Under sail you can generally expect between ½ to 1 knot more depending on conditions and your existing prop. Of course, a 2-blade folder offers lowest drag under sail but what a ghastly trade off under power especially going astern or punching into heavy seas! The best point is the UK cost. Just £795 plus vat for any size. About half the cost of most feathering props. I have been so delighted with mine as a replacement for the fixed 2-blade on a sail-drive Maxi 34 that 2 years later my company is assembling and distributing in the UK. This is certainly one of New Zealand’s best kept sailing secrets. Alan Pollard Visit www.kiwiprops.co.nz for information Contact for purchase etc: Vecta Marine, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5NT Tel: 01672-564456 Fax: 01672-564602 Email: pollard @ vectamarine . com MOA Members' get 10% discount before Feb 2005, thereafter 5% |
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