If you have ever wondered what the process is to repair an outboard or sterndrive propeller is, you are in luck, that is the subject of today’s Prop Blog.

The first step in any repair is to make sure the prop can be repaired and that it will not cost more than the propeller is worth. This involves doing a visible check where we look to see any obvious signs that it is beyond repair. These signs include: large cracks, too much blade are missing, bends that are too close to the hub (off track), and blade thickness.

If everything checks out, the next step is to use a glass bead blaster to remove all paint, grease, and any growth that may have accumulated on the propeller. This also allows us to get a better look and double check that the prop is not beyond repair.

After blasting, we weld any cracks or missing pieces and sand the welds down back to the proper shape and thickness.

Next, the prop is put on a factory pitch block and shaped back to manufacturer’s specifications.

The final step is to prime and paint aluminum props and either put a polish or matte finish on stainless and nibral propellers.

After all of these steps are completed, you are left with a prop that looks like new!

Note: When getting a prop repaired it is the perfect time to add or remove cup or change pitch if the prop is not performing as it should. Just tell us how the boat is performing (please give us the info from my previous post “Picking the Right Prop”) and what you are hoping to gain.

To get a prop repaired, bring it in, email, or give us a call and we would be happy to discuss your options. If you are not in the Seattle area, you can ship it in.

If you have any questions, or anything you would like us to cover in future blogs, please feel free to ask.