I keep my boat in a slip and only haul it about every two years. I give the bottom a scrub every 6 months or so with a scuba tank.
I recently I hauled the boat and was dismayed to find that the prop showed significant galvanic corrosion. There are 2 anodes fixed to the strut which looked to be in good condition underwater as did the prop.
It was only when I cleaned it with a wire brush on the hard that I realised it was corroded.
It appears that there has been poor electrical contact from the anodes through the strut and the curlass bearing to the prop.
I have since added a 3rd anode on the prop shaft and will keep an eye on things.
Anyway I need a new prop.
Can anyone suggest the best source to buy a standard 15X9 3 blade. I want to replace it with exactly the same as the original prop.
I will be in the USA in June and will arrange to collect one on my travels. Standard parts for Catalinas are a a bit hard to buy here in Australia
Peter Taylor Melbourne Australia. Altair #2227 2005 C36 Mk11
I had to replace my two-blade for exactly the same reason, and ordered mine from the Catalina factory. They're located in the St Petersburg, Florida, area and I am sure they would love to host a visitor from Oz if you're going to be in that area.
Larry Brandt
S/V High Flight #2109
Pacific Northwest, PDX-based
2002 C-36 mkII SR/FK M35B
The factory is a good source, you can also check on-line. I think the standard 3 blade prop is a Michigan Sailor 15x9 rh rotation.
Ken and Vicki Juul
SV Luna Loca
C34 #1090
Chesapeake Bay
FYI, the cutless bearing is rubber, it will electrically insulate the strut from the shaft. The anodes on the strut won't help the shaft.
Graham Mackey
SV Nostromo
1989 C36 908
Tall Rig/Wing Keel
Toronto, Canada
Thanks Guys
I suspected the cutlass bearing may have a rubber surround and has been the problem. But thats the way the anodes were originally fitted. I'll look at it more closely when cleaning underwater from now on. Expensive lesson.
Larry I will be travelling to Florida so have sent a note to the factory as you suggested.
Peter Taylor Melbourne Australia. Altair #2227 2005 C36 Mk11