Feathering Prop Won't Deploy in Reverse

[jonb]

My Luke feathering prop will not deploy if I put the boat in reverse above approx. 3 knots.

Based on a sample of about 10 tries the prop would not deploy.
Furthermore once in this undeployed state if I let the boat slow down to below 3 knots it still won't deploy.

If first engaged at a boat speed of less than 3 knots the prop deploys reliably.

Has anyone else observed this behaviour?

It is a bit disconcerting but so far has not been a real issue as I have not had to rely on having reverse at speeds above 3 knots.

Any input would be appreciated.

[olson34]

We used an Autostream featherer for 15 years. We boat in cold water. We found that it sometimes took two or three tries to get the blades to rotate to reverse. It turned out that the normal green waterproof grease that we used was too stiff/viscous in our climate.
We bought some less viscous white grease from PYI. They recommend the same fix for the same problem on their MaxProp's.
MarTec would have sold it to us, but were out at the time. These "competitors" are quite civil and helpful with advice for each others' customers.

"Lubraplate "130 AA" grease" --- and we could not source it at any auto parts store here.
PYI Inc. Max-Prop PSS Shaft Seal

Of course your Luke could have some totally different issue, but just in case...


Regards,
L