30u Prop

Newsgroups Archive Prior to 2025
1

I’m considering a Flex-o-Fold prop for my 30u. The manufacturer has recommended a 17/12 two blade. The price seems okay but I would like to be sure about the specs. Does anyone have a Flex-o-Fold on their 30u? For what it’s worth my engine is a W33 with 2:1 reduction but I doubt that it would be any different from the more common W27.
I have a fixed two blade now but unfortunately I don’t know the size (and it’s in the water) so I’d also be interested in the specs of anyone else’s fixed two blade.
Thanks

Paul M
NS30U #211, Sandpiper
Cowichan Bay, B.C.

2

Paul,

I have the 3 blade Flexofold prop on my 30U with a W-27. Off hand I don’t recall the dimensions but could look for them if you’re interested.

Jim Cosgrove
FATE 30 U #343
Galesville MD

3

Paul

I will install the following before launch this season:

1 pcs 15x12-3 R bladeset
1 pcs 1" SAE, 3-blade hub

I went with the three blade for the slightly reduced vibration and slightly more efficient motive force.

I will let you know how it goes.
James
“Apollo” Nonsuch 30 U 415 1987
Marblehead, MA

4

PS. I have the W27 and the reduction is 2.1:1. The experts at Flexofold are very familiar with Nonsuchs. I would go with their recommendation for your specs. They are very responsive.

5

Hi Paul,
I am also thinking about getting a Flexofold prop. Did you purchase it locally? And what is the cost in Cdn$?

Thanks,
Don

‘87 NS30U Breezin’
Vancouver BC

6

I ordered direct from Flex-O-Fold in Denmark. Their quoted price (two blade) was 1405 USD including shipping. My payments were $1686 CAD plus $212 CAD in taxes and customs charges.

Paul M
NS30U #211, Sandpiper
Cowichan Bay, B.C.

7

Thanks for the info. Please let us know how it performs once installed.
Don

8

I will. I’m not hauling out until June but I’ll post then.

9

Interesting that Flexfold recommended a 17/12 two blade for you Paul. Here is what they recommended for my NS30:

  • Volvo Penta MD2030 (max. rated 28 hp / 3600 rpm, gear reduction ratio 1:2,47 ) we recommend a 2-blade 16X12L
    So I guess I would have a little less power & torque and slower shaft rotation than Paul’s boat (W33 / 2:1), but I have a saildrive, so maybe more efficient since it is not angled downwards at all and perhaps deeper?. I expect that I will go with Flexofold’s recommendation, but just curious as to why the difference. Probably real world experience/rule of thumb (with some very complex fluid dynamics behind that).

Mike
NS30 #26
Port Moody, BC

10

I have a 33, but also recommend looking at PYI maxiprop. . call them with the HP of your engine and they will make a suitable prop recommendation. I have had maxi props on my last two boats with good results
Chuck Mitchell
Cape Cod, MA