Frequently Asked Questions
Can you ship my propeller internationally?
Yes we can ship your propeller directly to you internationally using either FedEx or DHL.
How do I service my propeller?
Autostream S1 - replace the anode when it is wasted by 50%, grease through the grease nipple behind the anode until grease oozes out of blade journals/body joints.
Autostream S2 - replace the anode when it is wasted by 50%, grease through the grease nipple behind the anode and the grease nipple between the pitch screws until grease oozes out of blade journals/body joints.
Slipstream S4/5 - Replace the bump stop, side plates and blade bushes when the blades become loose in the body or the bump stop is breaking away (this is done as per the manual).
Slipstream S6/7 - Replace the bump stop, side plates,blade bushes and hub cushion(with bushes) when the blades become loose in the body or the bump stop is breaking away (this is done as per the manual).
Hydralign (all models) - Replace the anode when it is wasted to 50% grease through the 1 (AA and AB models) or 2 (Junior, New Junior, Senior, ES, LD) grease points which are plugged with a Stainless steel grub screw. The second grease point is the threaded hole which the anode securing bolt uses to hold the anode to the propellers body.
Can the flexible hub bush be replaced in my saildrive propeller?
Yes! All our saildrive propellers have a cushion in the hub which can be replaced using simple hand tools (no need to return the prop to the manufacturer!)
Can I adjust my propellers pitch?
Yes all our Feathering propellers can have their pitch adjusted. Autostream via the external pitch screws and Hydralign upon assembly. We can adjust the pitch of your slipstream blades although they will need to be returned to our workshop to do this.
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How do I work out the right pitch?
Send us your boat specs on the contact us page and we will do the math for you.
Can I install my propeller in the water?
We do not recommend underwater install, however we know that slipping is not always possible. You can install all or our propellers underwater, please let us know if you intend to do this prior to ordering as we will supply different loctite and additional instructions.
How do I know which make and model of propeller I have?
The easiest way to identify your propeller is via the serial number stamped on the body. There is an individual serial number on each prop, but your model can be derived from the first two letters / number:
S1 - S1 Autostream Feathering
S2 - S2 Autostream Feathering
S4 - S4 Slipstream Folding
S5 - S5 Slipstream Folding
S6 - S6 Slipstream Folding
S7 - S7 Slipstream Folding
J - Junior Hydralign Feathering
NJ - New Junior Hydralign Feathering
S - Senior Hydralign Feathering
ES - ES Hydralign Feathering
LD - LD Hydralign Feathering
AA - Aperture A Hydralign Feathering
AAS - Aperture A Stainless Blade Hydralign Feathering
AB - Aperture B Hydralign
What clearance do I need around my propeller?
With the blades in the drive position you should have at least 10% (better to have 15%) of the propellers diameter as clearance between the blade tips and any obstructions. In front of the propeller you should have enough clearance by design as the propeller blades will sit in the same position as a fixed bladder propeller (aperture models) or further aft (all other models). Behind the propeller the blades should clear all obstructions in the drive and feathered positions.
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I have an A aperture - will a low drag propeller fit?
Yes we have designed the Aperture range of propellers specifically for this purpose.
Can I fit a low drag propeller to my Sail Drive?
Yes the S2 Feathering, S6 Folding (2 blade), S7 Folding (3 blade) can all be fitted to sail drive legs, they include a cushion in the hub to protect the sail drive transmission.
I have a Hybrid drive system, can low drag propellers regenerate?
Yes our Aperture A and B propellers are proven performers when it comes to regen. They are being used on new builds all over the world - Antares Catamarans, Max Cruise Catamarans, St Francis Catamarans and HH Catamarans who have found in testing that the Hydralign props have the best regen against competitors. For more information, check out our props for regeneration page.
How do I remove one of your propellers?
It is important to be careful to avoid damaging your propeller while removing it - please refer to the appropriate manual in our support section found through the main menu.