PROPELLERS
Josin has an MD2020B, nominally 18 hk, driving a 15" x 10" two-bladed Gori propeller through a 2,3:1 gear.
No trouble in achieving hull speed plus, (ankle deep water in the cockpit) at less than max revs, 3600rpm, in smooth water.
BUT. The last few miles back to homeharbour of my long cruise last year was painfully slow, into a gale and short-chop seas, when speed was wave-punched down to 2 to 2,5 kt.
Talking to propeller people at the recent boat show in Oslo indicated that the necessary thrust to help in these conditions would only come from a prop with more blade area, of the same diameter and pitch, the engine being more than powerful enough.
(A fixed-bladed prop would be best, but I priority sailing performance).
Both Flex-o-Fold and Gori have three-bladed folders.
Anyone out there with experience of these?
Would much appreciate advice before spending my gold.
John
