Chuck, I have used MAX Props since the mid 80’s including multiple Hawaii crossings. (Full disclosure, I have known Frederic Laffitte one of PYI’s owners since before PYI was a company and have sailed over 20K offshore miles with him.)
I echo the comments regarding PYI’s recommendations, especially as a best starting point. Fred Hutchinson has been serving PYI’s MAX Prop customers for a very long time. I have been at PYI and been able to observe their customer service commitment first hand. Last time I was there it looked like the next generation was beginning to “learn the ropes” from Frederic and the other owner/managers so us MAX Prop users should have them as a resource for a long time. For Calypso’s 3 blade MAX Prop and on other boats I have used several different pitch settings. For long off shore voyages I have intentionally over pitched the prop (just a little) to reduce engine RPM when motoring in calm (NE Pacific high) conditions. For our trip on Calypso around Vancouver Island I slightly under pitched the prop to allow better power (higher engine revs) for “punching” into head seas and wind. If you do not hear from someone with your same boat and power setup, using the PYI recommendation for your first time underway then looking for the usual signs of over/under pitch may be the best compromise. When I was experimenting with Calypso’s prop pitch I had a deal with the Travel Lift operator that he would leave the slings down long enough for me to perform a “hot lap” and check the performance. I got away with this twice before settling on my best 2 options. Happy New Year and stay well, Martin DeYoung Calypso 1971 C&C 43 Seattle/Port Ludlow Hi guys, Tables are great, but actual settings are better. I hope someone else with a 36 footer and a Yanmar 3GM30F w 2.6:1 reduction and a 17" two blade MaxProp will share his actual setting number to help us. Thanks to those who responded already. Chuck S Martin DeYoung
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