Hi Steve,
This season I changed to a Kiwi Feathering Prop (16" 3 blade - 21
degrees of pitch) from the original equipment of a 2 blade fixed
bronze prop. I have a 1987, 30U with a W27A engine.
Some major improvements with the change:
- The engine seems quieter and vibrations have been reduced to next to
nothing.
- Backing down, "prop walk" has all been eliminated. My marina
configuration has me needing to back to starboard when leaving my
slip... with the old prop, the boat pulled hard to port... it was
always a challenge. Now it's easy!
- When engaging reverse to slow/stop the boat, it digs in immediately
and the boat now 'stops on a dime'. No hesitation at all.
- I have not experienced any issues with stalling, or the need to wait
for the engine to "warm-up".
- When under sail, I am easily achieving anywhere from .5 to 1.5 knots
better speed, depending on how hard it is blowing.
- I am now able to point much closer to the wind, to the point that my
fellow boaters (traditional rigs) have accused me of having my engine
on (it was off - I told them to use their binoculars to check my stern
for any raw water discharge... as I pulled away from them!) as they
had to tack and I was able to stay on the original course! This has
been the most fun!!!
- Though I do not believe it has given me any additional forward
speed, the boat seems more stable under power and cuts though the
swells much better than before.
- I still place the transmission in reverse when under sail, as when
sailing at faster speeds, there is a feeling through my feet that the
prop may be rotating or not fully feathering. Once placed into reverse
the feeling/sound disappears.
- The cost ($1350 - delivered) was 1/2 to 1/3 of the cost of the other
folding/feathering props.
- Kiwi's customer service was excellent. Fully responded to all my
questions/concerns prior to my purchase, with no pressure to purchase.
So far, I am very satisfied with the Kiwi feather prop.
Peter Grabow
CAKEWALK III 1987 30U 430
NY, NY