Question for ya all. I have a 1976 C&C 33' with a V-drive and an original 2 blade prop. I get confused on this 2:1 reduction gear stuff. I was told that some V-drives are 1:1, but I thought they were all 2:1 - guess I don't know what that means. Anyway, when I do my open ocean cruise (well I only end up about 50 miles offshore) up to Catalina Island every summer, I'm finding that with rough seas and a nice headwind I can only make about 4.5 to 5.0 knots at 1800 rpm. This is a 9,600 pound boat. The trip takes me 2 to 5 hours longer to make in this boat than my old Ericson 27' with a 15HP outboard. So, I was wondering if it is a decent idea to have a spare 3 blade prop to use just for cruising. My motor performs fine in the bay, but just doesn't seem to move enough water in a good swell with good wind on the bow. So, does anyone change out to a 3 blade for cruising and, if so, what is a good 3 blade prop for the A-4 on this type of boat? I think the Indigo is just for direct drive, correct?
Any wisdom appreciated - I would like to cut the 15-18 hour trip back down to my old 12-15 hours.
Any wisdom appreciated - I would like to cut the 15-18 hour trip back down to my old 12-15 hours.
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