Stainless Versus Aluminum Propellers – Which is Best?

[uncljohn]

Cat-

If you have a chance of hitting something w/ your prop, then definitely stainless. Since it is stiffer, then any resistence it hits will go directly to the hub, so I'm sure it would be more susceptable to hub blowing, BUT an alumuinum prop is more susceptable to having a blade bent or broken on impact. So really, its a trade-off. I'll take better milage/speed and stronger prop blades over the chance of a blown hub.

Like you found out, that's what Sea Tow is for!

[Fish Nut]

I have a different opinion on SS vs aluminum. I have always run the aluminum prop, the one reason is if you hit something it will give not the gears in the lower unit. Have I hit submerged objects yes. It dinged the aluminum prop and I had it reconditioned over the winter. Aluminum props are also better if you are slipping your boat due to the difference in metals issue with stainless. SS gives you slightly more speed slightly more fuel efficiency, and looks better. I have never blown a hub. I have had new ones pressed in when reconditioning a prop.

[B-Faithful]

unless you know you are going to be in the shallows a lot where you have the understanding that you are going to damage blade edges and reconditioning is a given, SS is the way to go. The odd chance of hitting something is why they have the rubber hub... Unfortunately something is wrong with the hubbs you have been getting. Are they aftermarket? What brand prop do you have.

[Rivercat09]

Originally Posted by B-Faithful

unless you know you are going to be in the shallows a lot where you have the understanding that you are going to damage blade edges and reconditioning is a given, SS is the way to go. The odd chance of hitting something is why they have the rubber hub... Unfortunately something is wrong with the hubbs you have been getting. Are they aftermarket? What brand prop do you have.

Thanks everyone. I want to say that the prop is a Stiletto. I got it from Overtons 4 years ago, and I had some good advice on picking it out from a buddy who's been boating for 15 years.

As for the hub, I took it to Fairwinds Marina and they sent it out to be re-hubbed after it blew out last year. I would hope that they use quality materials.