[C38] Propeller issue follow up

[Charles Finn]

Based upon our discussions a few months back, I purchased the Campbell 
Sailor prop  (15 x 9 three blade).  I have the Universal 5424 and have 
only been able to obtain 5-6 knots at 2400+ rpm.  I had a two-blade 
fixed prop.  In addition, I had awful "prop walk" and the boat would 
"thrum" at higher rpms that was wearing over any long motoring.

I talked with the Norm Ross at West by North Enterprises and he made 
three promises:
1. The boat will go faster at reduced rpm and will not load the diesel.
2. The "thrum" is due to the two-blade prop as it is completely covered 
by the keel vortex, so it is essentially grabbing more water when it is 
outside the keel shadow and then relieved when within.
3. Prop walk would be significantly reduced.

Well, he was right on all three promises!  I now get about 6.5 knots at 
2000 rpm.  The engine is a lot quieter and the thrum is gone.  I still 
have prop walk, but it is not nearly as bad.  The prop looks very 
different from the Michigan Wheel design.   My last test of course will 
be how the drag will affect sailing, but I suspect I won't seem much 
(the weather in my area has been absolutely awful for the last 6-7 weeks).

Charles Finn
Mighty Quinn,  #114
Lake Champlain