The propellers for boats are made from bronze, stainless steel, or Nibral alloy. Although they are resistant to corrosion, external growth like barnacles and slime can develop in the marine environment. These growths on props can cause imbalance, disrupt the laminar flow, and cause cavitations. This reduces the power that is converted into usable thrust. Props for boats must be kept clean to ensure their efficient functioning.
You will need the following tools and materials:
Socket
Needle-nose pliers
Rotary sander
Hammer
Machine file
Wire brush
Chisel
Pressure washer
Breaker bar
Sandpaper 180-grit
Step 1 – Removal
Use needle-nose pliers to remove the cotter pin on the propeller shaft. The socket and breaker bar can be used to break the torque on the locknut. Turn the locknut and then take the locknut washer, propeller, and locknut washer off the shaft. If the propeller hub is too tight, you can use a rubber hammer to loosen it.
Step 2 – Cleaning
You can remove barnacles or mussels using the chisel, but not the propeller. Or you can use the corners to dig in. Use a wire brush to remove all barnacles from the propellers. To remove hair or slime, use the pressure-washer
Step 3 – Inspection
Look for any nicks on the wheel. Arrange any nicks or dings along the edges of your blades that could cause a pull on the machine file.
Step 4 – Polishing
Use a rotary sander with 180-grit papers to smoothen the propeller. It is important to change the paper often as it can clog quickly on bronze and Nibral propellers. Polish the propeller until it gleams.
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