Does anyone have experience with the various types of Prop Protector/line/net cutters. I am considering installing a Shaft Shark unit but would like to hear comments or recommendations before making a purchase.
Hilbre
—
John Meyer
Hilbre
C36 MKll, Hull 2135
Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro, CA
Mine was a single wheel with a serrated edge like a sharpened bicycle sprocket. It didn't do a thing to help the few times we had lines around the shaft. Other styles might work, but I don't recommend that type.
I removed it when I changed the prop a few months ago.
Duane Ising - Past Commodore (2011-2012)
s/v Diva Di
1999 Catalina 36 Hull #1777
Std rig; wing keel, M35B, Delta (45#)
Punta Gorda, FL
http://www.sailblogs.com/member/diva-di/
Duane, thanks for the info. When I did some research it seemed that none of them were 100% effective. How effective seemed to depend upon the situation and the material involved. Your experience appears to confirm that.
Hilbre
John Meyer
Hilbre
C36 MKll, Hull 2135
Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro, CA
You are welcome, John.
Most of our cruising is in water at least 65F, so I can go over the side with my SCUBA hose and regulator. I do not have the breath-hold capacity to do those jobs underwater.
Guess I will have to bring my wetsuit if we cruise up to Maine anytime.
Duane Ising - Past Commodore (2011-2012)
s/v Diva Di
1999 Catalina 36 Hull #1777
Std rig; wing keel, M35B, Delta (45#)
Punta Gorda, FL
http://www.sailblogs.com/member/diva-di/
I am also in warm water but without Scuba. I did not give much thought to a Prop cutter until I ran into a fleet of Mexicans in their Pangas with 200 HP Yamaha outboards fishing 20 miles offshore, in fog and at night. I managed to extricate myself without any foul ups but it got me to thinking about a prop cutter. I guess if you cruise enough, you will eventually have an event like this. I see Fatty in this months edition of CW also had a run in like this off Ecuador. Like Fatty, a voice and a flashlight were my first warning. They never showed up on RADAR, even at short range.
Hilbre
John Meyer
Hilbre
C36 MKll, Hull 2135
Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro, CA
John I have never used one but I saw a post from someone who had a " hook knife" on a long handle which looked like it might be a useful tool. Sailors solutions.com has them although they are currently out if stock. Sort of thing you tuck away on the boat and hope you never use. Have a great winter in Mexico, I look forward to following your blog
Tom
Tom Irwin
North Saanich, BC, Canada
1983 Catalina 30 - #3134
Until June 10, 2013
Future Catalina 36 MK II owner
I have had a product called Spurs which mounts on the shaft near the prop.I've used them over 30years. They have their issues, but for the most part are effective. Here in Maine lobster warps are a big issue. Average line might be 3/8" plus. Trying to avoid them at all times is nearly impossible. Should you get one wrapped around the prop and shaft with current and wind it is no easy task to free oneself. So having something to take care of the problem is beneficial.
[url]http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&v...
Gary Bain
S/V "Gone With The Wind"
Catalina 36', Hull #: 1056, Year: 1990, Engine: M-35
Standard Rig
Moored: Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Home: Auburn, Maine