Maintaining a Feathering Prop

[dennisjay]

My boat has an LH bronze feathering prop, which hasn't been serviced in the four years I've owned her.

Is it a big deal to pull it off, take it apart and apply some grease?

What kind of grease should be used? Can I use the same grease I use for my winches?

Thanks.

[swagman]

Hi,
No issues in taking it off - just remember to use a little bit of red locktite when putting the grub screws back in.
I'd suggest it might benefit more from a good clean and then high polish, as opposed to greasing any parts.
But then having said this we've had props greased when we've not asked for it, and thinking about it now I'm not sure I noticed any better or worse performance.
Cheers
JOHN

[djmarchand]

You probably don't have to remove the prop. Most feathering props have grease fittings that are plugged with a cap screw. Remove the screw and replace with a Zerk fitting that can be purchased at any auto parts store. Pump in grease until it starts to exude from the joints.

I have used a waterproof grease sold by Defender.

Also replace the zinc on the end of the prop. Boatzinc sells them for MaxProp. Island Packet sells them for Prowell and others cheaper than the manufacturer. For best life put a little nail polish on the zinc around the attachment screws. These zincs need to be replaced yearly at a minimum in most cases.

David