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Old 07-02-2018, 07:24 AM   #16
MAXUM
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Stainless props are more durable no question - the performance argument is nonsense unless you are running a high performance high horsepower racing boat. Bear in mind that many of those performance boats are running exotic blade and pitch combinations that can only be attained by using stainless. I'm sorry but I don't buy a change of 5 MPH on the top end just because of the prop material.... change in pitch, 3 versus 4+ blade, absolutely (which would also require a pitch change), but doing a like for like not buying that. In fact I have run both SS and Aluminum on my stern drive and saw 0 performance difference. Same diameter, pitch and blade count.

I also don't buy the argument that a stainless prop will destroy your stern drive if you hit something. Hit anything hard enough the lower unit will sustain damage. For anything else I don't think there is a prop today that doesn't come with a hub that will strip out if the prop hits something. At least that's what Merc has done for years and I know my Johnson outboard has the same design. Both early 2000 vintage.

One reason NOT to use stainless is that it does accelerate drive corrosion a consideration if your boat sits in the water.

Think of it this way.... all these ski and wakeboard boats where performance is such a big deal run brass props. Brass is nearly as soft and flexible as aluminum. If stainless was all that you can bet those boats would be using them.
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