Throwing blades

[GK]

I think we met at the Sarasota run, I was running a yellow Donzi 38ZR. I heard you threw a blade during the run and I metioned it to a top notch mechanic that evening. He felt it probably had nothing to do with the props but was a factory error of how the drives were installed. This would make some sense considering your blade problem has occurred with numerous manufactures and seems to be a continual problem regardless of the type of prop you run. I wish you the very best and if you want to discuss in detail let me know.

- Glenn

[aTX427]

Surface piercing is very tough on the props and drives for that matter. The #6 props are forged, where most Bravo props are cast, which has something to do with it. Blade thickness is another factor - not sure if you are lab finishing, but you may do better with non-lab props. Lastly, if you have any blade imperfections; e.g., small dings, scratches, etc. do not run the props until you have them fixed, as it will weaken the blade and more than likely lead to a premature failure.

[Yamaha 225]

Great info!! I am in the process of buying a 07 38 Lightning for one of my customers. Also with ITS and short Sportmasters. It has got Maximus props. Someone mentioned something about wrong installation of the drives. Is there something I could look for in regards to this?

Other common problems on this boat/engine combo??

All replies are greatly apprechiated!!

Erik Eriksen,
Norway

[Beak Boater]

I would think that between the race and pleasure versions of the 38 Fountain, they know exactly where to put the drives in each version. I wouldnt worry too much about that unless the boat has been modified by someone else. I have owned 5 Fountains, 2 of them 38's, one 600 sci, and currently a 700 sci with 6 drives. Never had a problem with setup from Fountain.