[C320-list] Gori vs Flex-o-fold vs Kiwi props

[Jeanne DeLaCruz]

Can the prop be changed without the boat being hauled.  I am interested in switching props but do not plan a haulout for at least a year.
J DLC 
#846
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: rcooley at twcny.rr.com<mailto:rcooley at twcny.rr.com> 
  To: C320-List at Catalina320.com<mailto:C320-List at Catalina320.com> 
  Sent: Sunday, March 15, 2009 3:10 AM
  Subject: Re: [C320-list] Gori vs Flex-o-fold vs Kiwi props


  I installed a Kiwi last spring.  I replaced the original 2-blade prop.  In 4' seas I can achieve hull speed at 2800 rpms.  The greatest advantage is increased sailing speed, due to less drag.  Stopping power in reverse is unreal.  At 5 knots, I can stop in less than 2 boat lengths.  Prop walk is reduced in reverse due to decreased time to get the boat in motion.  Initial reverse, the boat walks approx 1/8 of a turn, then starts in reverse.  Once started I can feather the throttle and have the same control as in forward.  We  back into the slip everytime.  The prop can easily be installed by the owner.  It took me approx 10 minutes to install.  I could not justify the cost difference between the Kiwi and other props.  I'm happy with my choice.
  ---- Jeff Hare <catalina at thehares.com<mailto:catalina at thehares.com>> wrote: 
  > Whether the Gori is worth $425 more to you than the FOF probably depends on
  > how you use your boat.
  > 
  > It's hard to imagine that there could be any sailing performance difference
  > between the two.  But if you frequently find yourself motor sailing in light
  > air to get somewhere, then the Gori has some big benefits.  Being able to
  > switch it into overdrive (more aggressive pitch) lets me motorsail at near
  > hull speed in ~7kts of wind (as long as it isn't too far aft) at only about
  > 1800-2000 RPM (yanmar).
  > 
  > Our engine is a *lot* quieter at 1800-2000 rpm which makes motoring a little
  > less annoying.  We could never motor sail this fast with our fixed prop
  > without revving the engine much closer to 3000.
  > 
  > -Jeff
  > 
  > PS: Since Adam W. hasn't even noticed he *has* an engine in his boat yet,
  > the extra coin wouldn't be worth it to him.  :)
  > 
  > -----Original Message-----
  > From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com<mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com>
  > [mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Jerry Clayton
  > Sent: Thursday, March 12, 2009 1:37 PM
  > To: C320-List
  > Subject: [C320-list] Gori vs Flex-o-fold vs Kiwi props
  > 
  >     I will be having the bottom painted soon and am considering having a
  > folding prop installed at the same time.  
  >     I am considering the Gori and Flex-o-fold 3 blade folders and possiblily
  > the Kiwi feathering props.  I have heard many good reports on Gori but very
  > little comments on FOF.  Kiwi had a nice review from Practical Sailor. 
  >     Does anyone have a FOF or Kiwi prop on their 320?  Are you happy with
  > your choice?
  >     Last time I check prices were 
  > $1300 Kiwi
  > $1925 FOF
  > $2350 Gori
  > just wondering if the Gori is worth the extra $425 more than the FOF?   
  >      I currently have a 3 blade fixed so I guess anything would be an
  > improvement.
  >     Also are there any maintainance issues on these props other than zincs?
  >     I have researched the archieves but would appreciate any fresh comments
  > on FOF and Kiwi now that you have had them longer.
  > 
  > Thanks,
  > 
  > Jerry Clayton
  > #988
  >      
  >     
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  >