FOLDING PROP RE-FIT

[drynoc]

I am attempting to re-condition a folding prop that came with, but was not attached to, the boat I just bought. There is enough pitting on it that I doubt that I will ever have the patience to make it perfectly smooth again. Does it have to be? Can I paint it and use it with some rough spots? If so, what are some suggestions on primer and paint to use?

[Silmaril]

I would be nervous about a prop, folding or otherwise, that had excessive pitting. The prop spins at pretty high rpm, depending on your gearbox, it could be as much as engine rpm. It therefore needs to be well balanced, or vibration will occur.

If it is badly pitted, you would have to ask yourself "Why is that?" The pitting is a sign of electrolysis, and I would carefully inspect the rest of your underwater metals for damage. How does the shaft look? The strut? How about your rudder shaft? Any metal through hulls?

If everything else looks fine, I would recommend checking with the manufacturer of the prop for an authorized repair center. I have an older (16 years!) Martec 16" that has been sent out for inspection and rebuild at least twice for new pins over it''s life. They will be able to give you advice on the strutural integrity of your prop and recondition it for you. The prop comes back looking like new, and it''s about $250 bucks.