Kiwi-prop impressions

[Kyle Ewing]

I launched with a new Kiwi feathering prop and thought I'd add my impressions.  Prop was a 15.5" x 19 degree (comparable to 15 x 10 inch) prop.  It replaces a 15 x 9 inch 3 bladed prop.

1.  Sailing speed under sail is greatly improved as others have reported.  In addition the helm feels more responsive and lighter to the touch.  Due to decreased drag and better water flow over the rudder?
2.  I get 7 knots at WOT (about 3200 RPM, M25XP).  Cruising speed seems to be around 6 knots at 2400 RPMs.  I changed my alternator at the same time so consider this an uncalibrated number.
3.  Pitch in reverse is high so the engine is overloaded.  I can only turn 1700 RPMs.  There's plenty of thrust, however if the boat is moving too fast changing to reverse while in idle has stopped the engine.
4.  Prop walk is greatly reduced so its easier to back up straight.  The down side is I'm used to having prop walk.  I tie up on the port side so used prop walk to scoot the stern close to the dock.  I also use the prop walk to my advantage when turning around in tight spaces.
5.  The manual recommends sailing with the tranny in neutral.  At high sailing speeds (7+ knots) I had prop rotation so I usually leave it in reverse.

Overall, based on a few days use, I'm pleased with the prop.

Kyle Ewing
Donnybrook #1010
Belmont Harbor, Chicago

[sunfun]

Sorry for adding to this very old thread, however I have recently installed Kiwi Prop as well on my 1990 Mk 1.  I love this prop...

Feathers easily even with motor running...shaft stops after a few revs.  Feathers easily under sail...noticed a half knot difference in winds under 5 knots.  I had a 15x10 2 blade prior.  Reduced vibration, although I still have to align properly to the shaft log to make it better.

I can pretty much echo Kyle's sentiments.

I always back into my home slip so I am tying to port.  It took a few tries as the prop walk is reduced greatly from the old one which I had gotten used to.  This one steers!!

Hardest part to get used to was how fast it took off in reverse.  Stops boat dead in water when shifted to reverse.  Great for quick stops.

Kyle, if your shaft is still turning, check to make sure the blades roate freely.  I am pleasantly surprised at how well mine feathers...still in neutral.

Vince Ornato
Zee Meisje #1027

[Mike Vaccaro]

We've found that the Kiwi will feather about 50% of the time if you simply leave the engine in neutral after you shut down.  If you shift into forward for 3-5 seconds AFTER the engine is shut down and then return to neutral, it will feather every time.  On our boat, we can hear the shaft turning if we open the door underneath the head sink (easier than pulling the engine cover!).

Cheers,

Mike