The Right Transmission Gear for Sailing

Hurth Transmission Data Card Model HBW-50 (2:1) Used on Models 12, M2-12, M-18, M3-20, M4-30, M25 and M-25XPModel HBW-100 (1.8:1) Used on Models 30, 35, and 40. CAUTION: DO NOT LEAVE GEAR IN FORWARD WHEN SAILING. GEAR MUST BE IN NEUTRAL FOR FREE WHEELING OR SHIFTED INTO REVERSE TO LOCK PROPELLER WHILE SAILING. CAUTION: TRANSMISSION MUST BE LEFT IN NEUTRAL WHEN SAILING, DO NOT LEAVE IN FORWARD GEAR WHEN SAILING WITHOUT POWER AS IT WILL DAMAGE GEAR. Further Hurth Info at Torreson Diesel

I'm attaching a copy of the transmission placards that came with my boat. I think that they are self explanatory. Don't believe that any "warranty" issues from a defunct company involved. Hurth just DOESN'T want anyone sailing with the transmission in FORWARD with the engine off. I don't think that Carl Hurth had folding/feathering props in mind when those instructions were written. I believe that most folding/feathering props will not do their thing unless the shaft is stopped. I also wanted to remind everyone to change their oil every year. Ron Hill, APACHE #788

---

If you sail with you gearbox in neutral, I suggest that you check the temperature of the gearbox (with your fingers will do). You will find it get warm to hot after you have been sailing for a few hours. Do not know if that does any damage, but I worry about things that get hot. Even with a feathering Prop, I have learned to always sail with the gearbox in reverse to prevent to prop from un-feathering for any reason. Ray Irvine, Crew's Nest #1383