Propspeed performance

We received a bit of press information the other day about the merits of Propspeed, you know, that yellow-looking coating designed to prevent marine growth on your props and running gear, thereby extending your boat’s performance between inevitable hull antifouling.

Funny thing is, I've been using the product on my 42-foot cruiser for almost five years and, like most of those cruisers on the waterfront these days, he wouldn’t have it any other way. A phone call to the marine services and slipway guys at the Royal Motor Yacht Club in Newport, NSW, reveals at least 70 per cent of all large cruiser are using Propspeed.

The retail cost for the props only on a 40-footer is about $450 to $500. It should be noted that yours truly has only ever paid full retail. Having chosen to pay for the product and test it over the years, how does Propspeed stack up?

There’s no question that the non-stick coating keeps my props nice and clean. With regular use, it lasts for about two years. The longest period of downtime for my boat is about four weeks in the middle of winter. Otherwise, it’s driven at least fortnightly. Those who use their boats less often might get Propspeed applied annually. Still, it saves on a dive or three.

While most skippers get their props coated, some owners of big cruisers like Sunseekers, for example, are prepared to pay up to $2000 for Propspeed on their running gear, shafts, rudders, even the brackets for the hydraulic swim platforms. A clear topcoat can also be used for underwater lights and windows below the waterline.

The proviso with Propspeed is that it must be applied properly, in accord with manufacturer’s recommendations, by a qualified person. The first time around, our editor scored the lackey at a Sydney slipway. Not long after the boat returned to the water, the Propspeed washed away. So I pursued the distributor and a proper application was forthcoming. Due the product’s popularity these days, experienced Propspeed slipway folk aren’t hard to find and I’ve never had a problem since.

Needless to say, props that are free of marine growth give optimum efficiency. You get maximum engine revs, less load, desired top and cruise speeds, and no vibration. But you might still need a diver once or twice a year for the hull and, towards the last quarter of the second year, I give the props a light rub.

Bottom line: A good investment in your boating pleasure.