[C320-list] Kiwi Prop

[Amirault Family - S&B]

Rick:

I have had a Kiwi Prop on Bear for three years replacing a fixed three
blade. It cost 1250 Cdn and came with a fine maker's ball cap at no
additional charge. It has proven a good purchase.

Sailing performance is superior. I race (poorly) and can report that I come
out of a tack and regain speed faster than with the original. There is
little difference in heavy air, but in light wind I pick up at least a half
knot.

Under motor there is still prop walk in reverse. I don't think it is so much
specifically reduced, but more that I get way quicker. With the three blade
in reverse the stern would go immediately to port and eventually start
moving to the rear. With the Kiwi movement to the rear happens much sooner
so correcting for prop walk in reverse is waaaay easier if that makes sense
to you. I no longer sweat my neighbour when backing out of my slip.
Performance forward is no different than with the original prop.

The prop comes from the factory already adjusted for pitch, although the
manual shows you how to make your own adjustments. The manufacturer requires
that you identify your make/model of boat, motor and transmission and they
do the rest. I have had no complaint.

Thus far maintenance has been simple. I haul in the fall as we get freeze in
the harbour in the Great White North. The manual identifies the grease
points so a marine grease is applied before layup. This forces out any water
collected in the moving parts before freeze. That's it. I hope this moves
you forward.

Brian Amirault
797 Waltzing Bear, too