Folding Propeller Oct 2020

[fstbttms]

Originally Posted by wingssail

I've used Martec folding propellers on my boat for 34 years of continuous use and the one which was on it when I bought the boat was there already for six years.

Unfortunately, Martec folders are no longer in production.

[Jim Cate]

Originally Posted by wingssail

I've used Martec folding propellers on my boat for 34 years of continuous use and the one which was on it when I bought the boat was there already for six years.

I'm on my third Martec now. They can be completely rebuilt when needed, in most countries. I carry a spare.

They are rugged, simple, and inexpensive. Problems include reduced power in reverse (but totally adequate) and when they start to get worn sometimes only one blade opens.

Fred, next time try a F-O-F. Much better performance in our experience and in every test that I've found... and they don't need rebuilding every couple of thousand hours like the Martec that we had on our previous boat and from the sound of it, on yours. The F-O-F I put on this boat now has over 5000 hours on it and has no perceptible wear.

Chalk and cheese...

Jim

[Cheechako]

I dont like folders much. I like feathering props though.

[skipmac]

Originally Posted by Jim Cate

Fred, next time try a F-O-F. Much better performance in our experience and in every test that I've found... and they don't need rebuilding every couple of thousand hours like the Martec that we had on our previous boat and from the sound of it, on yours. The F-O-F I put on this boat now has over 5000 hours on it and has no perceptible wear.

Chalk and cheese...

Jim

Glad to hear another endorsement from a long time cruiser. Especially since I just bought one for my boat.

[freshalaska]

I’m not finding anything on F-O-F on a google search.

[wingssail]

Originally Posted by freshalaska

I’m not finding anything on F-O-F on a google search.

https://flexofold.com/

[freshalaska]

Great and thank you for that clarity.

[wingssail]

Originally Posted by fstbttms

Unfortunately, Martec folders are no longer in production.

Well actually, Martec is now selling geared folding props in collaboration with Austral Propeller and Seahawk Pty (not your buddies from Florida).

I got this email from Gary Beck today,

We are still refurbishing Martec props and selling 2 & 3 blades Slipstream stainless steel geared props, as well as, 3 blade Autostream stainless
steel feathering props.

If you are interested in any of these options, please feel free to call us at the number listed below

Thank you for your interest in our products

Sincerely,

Gary Beck
Martec Prop Service, LLC
14520 N Music Trail
Prescott, AZ* 86305
928-778-2035
Bus. Hrs M-TH 8am - 5PM (MT)

Also contactable:

gbeckprops@gmail.com
https://www.martec-props.com/

[toolbar]

Another satisfied Flexofold customer here, even though we only had four weeks in the water with the new props this year.

I wanted to go with a Kiwiprop first, but they recommended against their own product, because with a 16 inch prop (which was the max for my boat) it wouldn't get enough power into the water. Good pre-customer service in my opinion. They would have been a bit cheaper, but the Flexos seem to fit my engine like a glove, so who am I to complain.

Paul

[fstbttms]

Originally Posted by wingssail

Well actually, Martec is now selling geared folding props in collaboration with Austral Propeller and Seahawk Pty (not your buddies from Florida).

Yes, I am aware. I do business with Gary relatively frequently. But the Slipstream props are not the same product as the Martec folders and one shouldn't expect an identical experience when using them.

[Drinky Crow]

Got a shiny new FOF as a centre piece on my dining room table. Gonna' put it on when the boat's in the yard over the next month or two.
Very interested to see diff in cruising speed and while sailing!