Friday, May 1, 2009

Propulse Composite Boat Propellers

Imagine one boat propeller that can be 5 different pitches. And a prop that you can also change individual blades in case of damage. That prop is here and it's from Propulse.

Optimum performance
Adjustable pitch: In just a few minutes you can adjust the pitch and set your boat up for optimum performance in every situation (e.g. watersking, heavy or light loads..)

With the right pitch (the pitch which provides the rpm recommended by the engine makers at full throttle) you achieve faster speeds, lower fuel consumption and better overall handling.

Maximum economy
Replaceable blades on a Propulse propeller: After running aground it's easy to change the damaged blades on the spot and continue your trip without delay, at lower cost than repairing or buying a new propeller.

Maximum Strength
Composites: In the same way as today's Formula 1 cars are made of composites and carbon fiber materials to achieve maximum strength with minimum weight. ProPulse blades are made of composites which are stronger and 40% lighter than aluminum

ProPulse blades are not affected by corrosion or pitting as aluminium propellers are, and retain their pristine finish even after several years' use.

Maximum reliability
Three-year guarantee: ProPulse is a Swedish quality product, with a 3-year guarantee on the hub.

Adjusting the pitch or replacing blades on the propeller


Adjusting the pitch of the blades

 Propulse drawing
1) Loosen the bolts (7) about four turns with an allen wrench





Propulse pitch 22) Lift the ring (4) so as to release the locking teeth about 2 mm between the ring and the rear hub section (3)

Propulse drawing







Propulse pitch 33)
Set the required pitch on the graduated scale (10). This is easiest to do if the propeller is positioned with the ring in the upward position. Then grasp two opposing blades and turn these until the desired pitch has been achieved. The central position represents the pitch stamped on the foot of the blade. The pitch increases by one degree per division on the plus side and reduces by one degree per division of the minus side. Note that all four blades moves synchronized at the same time.
Propulse drawing


Propulse pitch 44) Press down on the ring so that the locking teeth inside mesh
Propulse drawing







Propulse pitch 55)
Retighten the bolts crosswise. Tighten firmly but without excessive force. Never use an extension on the wrench

Click to watch video!

Propulse drawing






Replacing Blades

Propulse change a blade 1
1)
Unscrew and remove all four bolts (7) from the propeller
Propulse drawing







Propulse change a blade 22) Dismantel the ring (4) and the rear hub section (3) so that the blades are separated, then remove the damaged blade

Propulse change a blade 3


















Propulse change a blade 43)
Assemble the rear hub section (3) and the ring (4)
Propulse drawing








Propulse hange a blade 54)
Position the blades in the recesses. Make sure that the arms from the blades enter the recesses in the ring. Do not use excessive force
Propulse drawing





Propulse change a blade 65) Assemble the adapter (1) and the front hub section (2) into position
Propulse drawing






Propulse change a blade6) Fit the bolts and tighten until about 4 turns remain























Propulse change a blade7)
Set the pitch as shown in the separate description























Propulse change a blade 98)
Tighten the bolts, firmly but without excessive force

Click to watch video!