Need a little help with a prop issue

[ApparentWind]

Hello, I am new to sailing and in the process of buying a 1989 Beneteau First 285. The current propeller (a 2 blade folding) is worn and since I will not be racing my boat I would prefer to replace it with a 3 blade prop for better control.. Shopping for a 3 blade prop has proven to be much more complicated than I imagined and I could use a little help.

The Beneteau has a Volvo Penta, model 2002, 18hp with a 25mm shaft and a gearratio of 2.37.

Can anyone recommend what pitch and prop diameter to look for in a 3 blade propeller for this boat ?

Thank you in advance.

[Stumble]

Apparent,

Just call Beneteau and ask what prop the boat came with originally. New props are expensive, used fixed props are typically free, or not much more at the salvage yards in Florida. But you need to know exactly what to ask for.

[Cheechako]

a propshop can recommend the prop, but as mentioned maybe Beneteau will know. I would recommend a Bronze Michigan Sailor 3 blade. Your boat will perform much better than with most folding props. Of course if you have the money a Max Prop is ideal and can be varied in pitch if your initial attempt needs tweaking...