When we get our boats ready for the 2014 boating season,
there are plenty of things that we will check first before the boat propeller.
However, few things are more important on your boat than the propeller and how
well it will stand up for the upcoming season.
Check your Propeller
Before putting your boat back in the water, it is important
to do a visual check of the propeller. Look for any dings or scratches on the
propeller that may have been caused from striking objects under the water or
that were resting on the surface of the water. Even if you don’t see anything
visually wrong with your propeller, you should have its props rebalanced on a
regular basis – based on the size of your boat and the propeller manufacturer’s
instructions.
Why It’s Important to Repair your Propeller
While your boat’s propeller may appear to run fine with a
tiny dent or ding, the propeller is making small unnecessary vibrations on your
boat that can cause early wear on your gears and bearings in your outdrive or
lower units. Unbalanced props can do the
same kind of damage from unnecessary vibrations, and they can become unbalanced
even if your propeller doesn’t hit anything.
How Can I Repair it?
If you don’t have experience with boat repairs yourself, and
if you don’t have the necessary equipment, it is best to leave it up to a
professional. Trying to repair it yourself may amplify the ding or dent, or lead
to additional damage to other parts of the outboard engine. Take some photos of
the propeller and bring them into a propeller service and repair shop like Steve’s Custom Props. They can
identify the make and model of your propeller and reference molds to repair
your propeller back into top performance shape.
