The folding prop will get you to hull speed and push you through chop if it is the proper pitch, which is all you can expect the 3 blade prop to do. Reverse, as you already know, can be a learning experience with the Martec. It will work fine at higher RPM, but tends to suck for backing up at low or moderate engine speeds unless you use proper technique. The three blade will back better at low to moderate speed.
I had a fixed prop on my 38 for a couple of years. I figured out that I lost ¼ to ½ knot of speed vs. the folding prop in all but heavy air sailing. I went back to a Martec folder. There are other folding props that back up better than the Martec. A geared prop like a Gori or a Flex-o-fold should work more like a fixed prop in reverse. Or you could get a feathering prop, if you can part with that much coin, and you will get excellent sailing characteristics and also excellent performance in reverse. Im sure others on the list will kick in with their experience. Rick Brass Washington, NC From: CnC-List [mailto:cnc-list-boun...@cnc-list.com] On Behalf Of Brian Morrison Sent: Monday, January 13, 2014 10:45 PM To: cnc-list@cnc-list.com Subject: Stus-List Prop Question Hello List, I have a 1979 C&C 34 with the original 2 blade martec folding prop. While at the yard today a friend suggested changing the prop to a fixed three blade for greater propulsion. The previous owner was a racer and I am more of a cruiser. My friend suggested that the 3 blade drag would be negligible but power would be much greater. Any thoughts or recommendations on prop replacement would be appreciated. Brian Brian C. Morrison S/V Rekofa, The Blue Whale 1979 C&C 34 Baltimore, MD
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