Propeller and Shaft Coatings
Over the years we have been experimenting with many different propeller and shaft coatings with various results. All seem to work if applied properly and each has it's own good and bad properties.
Prop Speed
We have used Prop Speed on many boats. This is a four step process. The first step (as with all the products here) is to get the props and shafts totally clean. The second step with this product is cleaning the surfaces with their product, Prop-prep. The third step is to etch the props with Propspeed Etching Primer. The final step is to apply the Prop Speed clear coat. With so many steps, most of which are time critical, Prop Speed weighs in as the most expensive method. The product itself is 30% more than the next highest product and the hours are also about 30% higher. The product also has fewer distributors than other products so may be harder to find.
Learn More at the Prop Speed Website
Pettit Prop-Koat
Prop-Koat is a Pettit product with an excellent supply network — it can be obtained through almost any good marine supply store. Although this product is cheaper than its counterpart, Prop Speed, it seems to be just as effective, although it may not have as long of a service life. We generally see one season is a good estimate for the life span. This product is a three stage with cleaning being the first. The second stage is the primer and the third is the top coat. The timing, although critical to a good job, is a little more friendly than the Prop Speed.
For more information on Prop-Koat, visit the Pettit Website.
Pettit Zinc Coat Barnacle Barrier
This product gets a big thumbs up from many yards as well as customers on a budget. I call it quick, cheap and easy. It is only a two step method. The surfaces are cleaned and the product is applied from an aerosol can. No windows of opportunity, mixing, brushing, etc. The product itself is also very affordable and seems to work quite well. Instead of the bronze color of the above products, this product is zinc colored — which figures since zinc is the main ingredient.
There is also a version of this product that is made for painting transducers.
For more information, read the product sheet from Pettit.
Other Uses
These products can be used to protect any metal beneath the boat including struts, shafts, scoop strainers and even trim tabs. As with the props, the surfaces must be clean and any old paint removed before applying.
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Dickerson Harbor
3831 Trappe Landing Road
Trappe, MD 21673
410-822-8556
dickerson@oya.com