[C320-list] AtoProp Feedback

[Andrew Santangelo]

Brian,

I have had an autoprop on my C320 for the last 15 years - it was my first "major" addition to Dawn Treader.

I both cruise and race.  Cruise wise it works excellent in forward and reverse (no prop walk).  The performance under power and the fuel economy significantly improved.  If I recall, I hit hull speed at a lower RPM.

Race wise it was one of several key improvements.  I have not raced in the last few years, but when we did we either placed or won.  When first racing as newbs we were dead last always (and I mean last).  After adding the autoprop we moved to the middle of the fleet.  (Later additions include fin keel, hydraulic backstay, racing sails, racing sheets and halyards, etc.).

Installation requires a shaft extender.  I forget the name/brand of mine, but it goes between the prop shaft and the engine.  It also suppresses any added vibrations and isolates the prop shaft/prop from the engine (reduces rust?).  Without it, the prop will whack the strut, a definite no-no.


Andrew Santangelo

C320 "Dawn Treader"
#333
San Francisco, CA

J22 "Blitzkrieg"
Elephant Butte, New Mexico



On May 16, 2013, at 3:36 AM, Brian Borchers wrote:

> 
> Hello,
> 
> I am considering an Autoprop for our 320. I reviewed some photos  of "Nauti - Duck" on the C320 web site and it looked like the strut had a cut out, does anyone know if this was done to accommodate the propeller?   Those who have the Autoprop or have had an Autoprop, your feedback and experience regarding the propeller is appreciated.  
> 
> Brian