props

[Mr. Sandman]

I am surprised you don't feel it at the wheel. Skeg is bent and broken. At higher sppeds it will put a turning moment on the boat, which you will need to compensate for by turning the wheel in the other direction.. so, it order to go straight you motor will be turned slightly and the boat will have some added roll as well.(sort of like a car with a bent frame)



I would:

A) get the skeg repaired correctly (which probably means buying a new casing..you really can't "fix" that right IMO.)

B) Have the lower unit checked out (gears/seals ect, while it is apart) You hit something hard which clearly caused a substantial shock to the lower unit. Last thing you want is to have you loose forward gear when you need it...

C) buy a new prop. (stainless...don't waste your money on AL) I can tell from the pics that the prop you have is not that hot. It will cost 300 (give or take 100) to get the right stainless prop but you will be much more satisified when you get it. One buddy called and recently thanked me for suggesting he re-prop (after going on a fishing trip on his boat).."Jezzzz, Its like I have a new engine now!, I can't believe it!"

Have it done by your dealer...don't penny pinch on this one. Have the other repaired and keep it as a spare as Van said...IMO that is all AL props are good for anyway, spares.

Why not just strighten the skeg with a big pair of vise grips and leave it chiped?
A) It does not make a strong selling point... Engine looks abused and not maintained properly.
B) fuel mileage
C) vibration
D) Possible Lower unit damage


Good luck...watch those rocks!!