To fold or feather

[Drinky Crow]

That is the question.

8hp Yanmar, 4800# sailboat.

[Jim Cate]

Feathering props have a large central hub to contain the gears, etc. Your small engine won't swing a very big diameter prop, and I suspect that the shaft to hull distance will also limit the max diameter. So, between these factors, blade area is quite limited with a feathering model. In fact, you may find that there are none that will actually suit your boat.

Folding props will allow a better disposition of blade area and are also more efficient due to better blade profiles... but I'm not sure that even a folder can be found for such a small engine. Have you done any research on this proposal?

While I'm a big proponent of folding props, I'm not sure t hat it is gonna work out for you. LEt us know what you fine.

Jim

[Drinky Crow]

C&C 27 MkV. These boats were marketed as MORC racers when released, I've seen a couple 4 sale Great Lakes region with Gori folders installed.

I did read this.... https://www.sailmagazine.com/diy/why...rag-propellers ....looking for real world feed back.