Beneteau 473 prop zize

[tomaz_423]

I am thinking of replacing stock 3 blade prop on my Beneteau 473 with a folding or feathering prop.
It is cold here and I can't dive under my boat.
Does anyone know what is the size and pitch of a standard 3 blade Beneteau puts on 473 year 2005 ?
I have a standard 75 HP Yanmar (4JH3-TE) on the boat and the prop is original from the factory.
Another questions:
What size you think I should mount?
What size is max possible for my boat?

What do you think of Flexofold for this boat and what about Autoprop? Any other recommendation?

[Fstbttms]

I'd say go with Gori or Flex-O-Fold if you want a folder. Max Prop if you want a feathering prop. Stay away from Autoprop.

That's my $.02.

[MJBrown]

Can't tell you what size the 473 takes but can tell you we had an Autoprop on our last boat a Bene 361 and loved it. Never an issue with plenty of power when motoring in fwd or reverse, nor with lower drag while sailing. I wouldn't hesitate to get another although will shop to see what else is out there when the time comes.

[sailingdog]

Another option would be a Kiwi Prop for a feathering prop. You could always call Bendytoy and ask them for the prop specifications.

[blt2ski]

I would figure out the prop you want, then deal with the prop manufacture to figure out the prop size based on motor, transmission gear, and RPM of the motor. Then you decide if you want a 2, 3 or 4 blade! No real need to know what you current prop size is, as the prop you buy, may have a different pitch or even diam to what you have.

Marty

[Minnewaska]

If I recall, Kiwi props are composite material (plastic maybe?). I'm very happy with my Max Prop, which is all metal. I guess the composite doesn't corrode, but the metal doesn't break (for the most part).

I agree that you should determine which prop you want, then call the manufacturer. Max Prop, for example, can be installed with several different settings to accommodate different pitches. You simply line up the gears differently.

[Fstbttms]

Originally Posted by Minnewaska

If I recall, Kiwi props are composite material (plastic maybe?). I'm very happy with my Max Prop, which is all metal. I guess the composite doesn't corrode, but the metal doesn't break (for the most part)..

Kiwi Prop blades are designed to break if damaged and are easily replaceable.

[tomaz_423]

Than you all for answers so far, specially to you Fast.
You have probably seen a few props in the water.

Kiwi: max engine power for them is 55 HP, mine is 75, so they are out.

I liked Gori's overdrive function, but some people told me it is not that practical.

I also liked Autoprop automatic pitch, but again heard a few not so good comments.

All props are a compromise. Fix prop on a sailboat must compromise between drag while sailing and propulsion while motoring.

Folding props do not have this drag problem (but must still fit into the opening available).

Flexofold sized the prop for my boat as 20x12 3blade.
I do not know if they took same size as stock Bene prop and just reduced drag or they optimized it for better motoring performance as well.

Autoprop sized it at 485mm (about 19 inch)

Prop calculator on
Sail Calculator Pro v3.53 - 2000+ boats
recommends 23.8 inch

Of course I trust Flexofold sizing more then a free internet calculator, but still - it is a big difference between 20 and almost 24 inches.

Flexofold shows this article on their site: http://www.flexofold.com/upload_dir/...onthly_low.pdf

Any more ideas?

[Fstbttms]

Originally Posted by tomaz_423

Thank you all for answers so far, specially to you Fast.
You have probably seen a few props in the water.

I have installed quite a few Goris on Beneteaus as well, as the local dealer here offers them as an option on new boats.

[blt2ski]

Tomaz,

Check with Zanshin, IIRC he has an autoprop on his 49' Jeanneau. Could be worth a pm or to to see how that is functioning or him.

I have a max prop, like all, has plus's and minus's. I know another fellow with an identical boat to mine, he removed the max prop as it went haywire, went to a fixed, and got double the fuel mileage if you will. I would think a light prop would be better for lack of fuel use.

Marty