proposing to paint prop

[tappers]

I''ve just cleaned layers of antifouling and general gunk off my prop and managed to get it to shine pretty well.

I am now wondering whether or not to repaint the prop. The stuff I''ve used on my bootline says it can also be used for props.

While the prop was in its gunge-coated state the sacrificial anode - positioned about three feet away as the crow flies - still did its stuff. I thought they didn''t work unless the prop was polished?

Another puzzle: I was listening to the radio news while chipping at the prop with a blunt screwdriver and noticed I was causing interference. Can any of you scientific types explain why?

Thanks

Tappers

[DuaneIsing]

Regarding your last question with the radio interference, are you sure it wasn''t just your magnetic personalilty?

Sorry, it''s Friday.

Seriously, perhaps you were creating electrical sparks.

[tappers]

I don''t know about my electric magnetic personality, but I am fairly wiry, I''ve been consistently overcharged by an assortment of ship''s chandlers and my best friend''s a conductor.

Your turn.

[DuaneIsing]

Tappers,

I forgot to ask if you assessed yourself the penalty for the "interference" you caused - and would it be considered "offensive" or "defensive"?

Back to serious again: take the same radio and use the screwdriver to chip at another piece of metal. Does it still cause the interference?

Duane

[tappers]

Duane

According to my wife, definitely offensive.

I''ll give your suggestion a try. Actually, though, this was just a phenomenon I observed when cleaning the prop. I''m really more concerned over the question of whether or not I should paint it. What would you recommend?

Phil

[DuaneIsing]

Tappers,

I only answered (or tried to) part of your question because I don''t have any experience or knowledge with painting of props. I will be interested to hear the answers others might give.

Good luck.

Duane

[Sfilson]

I don''t think the prop should be painted. The Zinc and its connection to the brass should be clean so it will work properly.
Scott

[SHIMSHON]

I have gone bare and have also used a two part system on my prop and quite frankly the only difference that I have noticed is the additional expense and labor.

[MSam]

I''ve had very good luck with an liquid antifouling wax. Just apply it with a rag at least 24 hours before you are going to put the boat in the water. Did a great job for the entire season. Also, much cheaper and easier than painting.

I can''t remember the name of the stuff I use, but it''s readily available at West Marine or Boat US.

Good luck!

MS

[loki]

Don''t paint the prop. You will reduce the efficiency by making a rougher surface and you run the risk of causing corrosion damage by the anti-fouling metal in the paint being cathodic to your bronze propeller. Bronze is an ideal material for underwater, it doesn''t need protection. Look at the propellers of commercial vessels-no paint.
Charlie