Any new prop info?

[Idylles15.5]

I'm aware of the big 15 prop test, but that was done in 2009. Going to finally make a purchase of a folding or feathering prop. The old test says the feathering is the way to go, but even feathered it makes a nice place for lobster pots or other debris to snag, whereas with the folding it lines would slip by. Any new tests out there or technology I'm not aware of? I have a 51 Idylles, 80 hp Perkins. Boat will do 8 knots with the fixed 3 blade. Its definitely dragging the boat down under sail.

[psk125]

Physics and hydrodynamics have not changed much in the past 20000000000 years, so it would seem that the test results stand. Your point about folding is well worth remembering, even if there are not many lobster pots left to snag in Long Island Sound.(It's gotten too warm for lobster now.) To push an Idylle to 8 knots, it has got to be huge. You are likely to gain half a knot or more under sail by changing to a prop that isn't such a drag as a fixed 3-blade one.

[Jim Cate]

The old test says the feathering is the way to go,

Not sure which test you are referring to, but the three blade Flex-O-Fold outperforms the feathering props in all ways except bollard pull in reverse in the tests with which I am familiar.

Jim

[Don C L]

I don't know an answer to your question, but I bet this guy does:
https://www.valleypropellerservice.com/index.html
Super friendly and always eager to talk about propellers of all stripes (though I confess I haven't asked him about folding props yet,) and guaranteed you'll get an education after chatting with him for awhile about props! I'd give him a call.