Production of the Max-Prop Classic ended in 2019, The Max-Prop Easy is the next generation of feathering propellers. Parts and service are available for the Classic.
The original Max-Prop was designed in the early 70's for the high tech race boat market. Since proving itself in the racing arena, the Max-Prop Classic has earned its way into the mainstream market as the leader in low drag propellers. Today you will find the Max-Prop Classic on a wide range of vessels from a modest 25' daysailer to a 161' Bluenose II.
Due to the increased popularity of the cruising vessel, Max-Prop introduced the three blade Classic model in the early 80's. This propeller will enhance a vessel's performance both under power with less vibration, better power in load conditions, and under sail with reduced drag.
With regards to performance under power, both two and three blade propellers will power the boat well in flat water. The three blade has a major advantage when going against heavy winds and seas; it will maintain the boat speed up to 30% better than the two blade. Moreover, a three blade propeller will run much smoother and reduce vibrations as it is balanced around three points as opposed to two.
With its unsurpassed performance in both forward and reverse, the Max-Prop Classic has become a legend among the sailing community.
In forward the Max-Prop Classic will offer 96% of the efficiency of a fixed blade propeller of the same diameter and pitch. The 4% loss in power can usually be eliminated by precisely matching the pitch of the Max-Prop to fit the boat engine combination.
The Max-Prop Classic provides 80% more power in reverse than a comparable fixed blade propeller. The Classic utilizes the same leading edge in forward as it does in reverse giving the propeller the same efficiency in both directions dramatically improving control and power in reverse.
All Max-Props have adjustable pitch settings. The Classic is adjustable in 2 degree increments. This can be done in minutes by disassembling it and reassembling it to the new configuration.
Under sail the Max-Prop Classic will increase sailing speed by about 15%, the largest difference being noticed when sailing in light air. When sailing with a fixed propeller the vessel has to overcome the drag propeller, installing a Max-Prop Classic reduces drag and maximizes sailing performance.