Boating Tips: How do Propellers Work?
How does a propeller work? Boating sharpie Lenny Rudow explains.
Have you ever wondered exactly how a boat propeller works? In this quick video, we show you a simple, straightforward way to understand exactly what's happening beneath the water's surface.
Now that you understand how a prop works, what pitch and diameter are, how many blades are appropriate, and what materials propellers are made of, you may want to learn a bit more. And, since propellers are such an important part of the powerboats we love, we at boats.com have already written plenty of articles that go far deeper into this topic than a two-minute video. Okay prop-loving boaters, it's time to put on your thinking caps and read:
Understanding Propeller Pitch
Which is Best: Aluminum or Stainless Steel Boat Propeller
High Performance Boat Propellers: the Art of the Trade Off
Outboard Expert: The Right Propeller
Outboard Expert: The Right Propeller, Part 2
Learn to love that propeller - it's what makes your powerboat a POWERboat.
Now, let's say you have the right propeller. Or, at least you had the right one, right up until you ran hard aground and bent the poor thing to smithereens. Once the replacement prop comes in and you're ready to change out the old for the new, make the job easier by first watching our How to Change a Boat Propeller video.
