Everything that moves needs to be rebuilt at some point. The Max-Prop is no exception. Both rotation in the water and shifting from forward to reverse will eventually create wear on the blade surface and the internal workings of the propeller.
If you start to get vibrations on the vessel that cannot be explained by engine alignment, bad motor mounts or a worn cutless bearing, then the next place to look is the propeller. It is a big hunk of hardworking metal rotating under the water, and a bent or worn blade can create a vibration.
The first thing to check on the propeller is for any of the following: worn edges; a bend; or corrosion on the surface of the blade. Any of these three can put the propeller out of balance and cause vibrations.
Bent blades like on this prop will cause vibrations on
your boat but luckily this can be repaired.
Next thing to look for is play in the blades of the Max-Prop. Engage the propeller in the forward position (straight leading edge stopped angled forward). At this point measure the rotational and fore and aft play in the blades. If at the root of the blade you have 1/8” play in any direction I would not expect that the propeller is the cause of a vibration. But if the play exceeds 3/16” or ¼” then the propeller is the likely cause.
If the propeller is indeed bent, corroded, or has excessive play then it should be sent back to PYI to determine if it can be rebuilt. In general we will need it 10 to 12 working days to affect the repairs.
Make sure you note the pitch and rotation of the propeller when you disassemble it. We will check the balance and function just as it is on your boat for the most accurate balancing. Be sure to fill out our Max-Prop Repair form before sending in your propeller. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office at 425-355-3669.
Cheers,
Fred Hutchison
