Used max-prop

[j34035]

I am looking at a used max prop (2 blade). It came off a boat similar to mine with 350 hours on it. Any of you have experience with these? Any worry to buying a used max? I would like to get rid of my folding prop; I have always experienced just a small bit of vibration with these. This is my 4th boat with folders and they all have vibrated worse than a hard prop. Will the max take care of that vibration? I know the reverse will be better. TIA
DD

[Paul_L]

Max Props are nice. PYI will rebuild the prop for you, if necessary. You might give them a call and ask what it would cost for an inspection of this one. The MaxProps are very susceptible to galvanic corrision if they are not kept properly zinced. But you'll see this obviously on the prop edges and surfaces themselves.

Paul L

[Pub911]

probably preaching to the choir, but vibration not always the prop's fault. Shaft, or shaft/engine alignment more likely. If vibration started after whacking something or after prop-shaft/coupling removal, this is the first place I'd look before blaming the prop.

Sorry, have no guidance for you on your real question!

[djodenda]

Also.. PYI sells used MaxProps themselves. About 30% off, as I recall. They have quite a stock on hand. Might be worth calling them first....

David

[Fstbttms]

How old is the prop? The earlier versions used a pin that runs crosswise through the shaft to secure the nut and requires pretty precise drilling of a hole through same. Newer versions use a different method to secure the nut that does not require modifying the shaft. Bear in mind also, that a fair percentage of Max Prop installations do require cutting off part of the threaded end of the prop shaft, likely ending the possibility of ever going back to a fixed or folding prop again.

[Faster]

Originally Posted by Fstbttms

.....Bear in mind also, that a fair percentage of Max Prop installations do require cutting off part of the threaded end of the prop shaft, likely ending the possibility of ever going back to a fixed or folding prop again.

Thanks, FB, for that nugget.... good to know.

[cvsheppard]

I have a Max Prop that came with the boat I bought last year. It was in such bad shape that the surveyor and 2 boatyards thought I needed a new cutlass bearing. Turns out the prop had all the slop in it. I did get it rebuilt ($1100) and reinstalled. They replaced a few parts and reworked the blades which looked like new. Mine is an older model and does have a few threads cut off the end with the hole drilled. While the boat was on the hard we could get the old fixed prop back on with one large nut, but no second nut or pin to secure it.

[blt2ski]

I have an MP on my boat. I do have a bit of vibration......AFTER a cutlass bearing was replaced 2 yrs ago, Since the shaft was removed, a dripless fitting installed.........I have a funny feeling that it is caused more be potential not aligning correctly than my MP, as it did NOT vibrate before this work.

I do like it, altho I have to admit with no other folding or fixed prop experience, I will not say it is the best prop out there. A boat to the north of my in Vancouver BC, that owner has put on a few different folders, and the MP was the 2nd best motoring/sailing of them, his current, IIRC a Kiwi is what he considers the best prop. Not sure what style of boat you have, ours our 30' 6500 lb fin keel style boats.

marty

[cvsheppard]

blt2ski,

I don't have any undue noise or vibrations but I haven't been out much since I've had the work done. The yard replaced the motor mounts, realigned the engine and shaft, installed a PYI dripless seal, rebuilt Max Prop, and changed out some seacocks. Ended up not changing the cutlass bearing on their advice. Like you, I don't have the experience to compare the difference in props. I have a Pacific Seacraft 34' with 13,000 lb displacement

[wwilson]

Doug,

I have had a 3-blade Max for 8-seasons without a single problem. As you may know - they provide lots of bite in reverse. They like to be greased annually.

Wayne