Aren’t All Propeller Shops The Same?
Published: Tuesday, February 12, 2019
By: Ray Treudler, Owner of NorthCoast Prop Tech
In today’s high tech world, some propeller shops fix props the “traditional way” with pitch blocks and feeler gauges. This is a great way to tune a propeller, provided you have the correct pitch block for the prop. Other shops use computer-aided scanning systems to determine a propeller’s pitch, face camber, and the inconsistencies not easily visualized. These systems compare your prop(s) to specific design criteria to determine where the corrections need to happen.
While all shops fix propellers using hammers, anvils, and/or presses, the difference lies in the level of accuracy. The higher the level of accuracy, the higher the level of propeller performance and overall boating satisfaction. Regardless of who does your props, you should take them to a certified prop shop. Just like your auto mechanics have certifications, the same goes for propeller repair facilities. The National Marine Propeller Association (NMPA) is the governing body which creates standards, provides certifications and continuing education, and offers an open forum for repair facilities to share techniques.
We at NorthCoast Prop Tech, are a certified member of the NMPA. We utilize PropScan® Technology, which is a computer-aided scanning system, to measure and tune propeller pitch to 1/1000 of an inch, and correct face and section camber. We provide propeller repair to all makes and models for recreational and professional boaters and for The U.S. Coast Guard from Buffalo, N.Y., to Detroit, Mich. Many of our customers also ship their propellers in for analysis and repair. We offer several levels of accuracy for your props depending on size, shape, and material.
Considering buying a used or new propeller or just want to see if yours is still ‘in spec’? Ship it to us or stop by our shop in Huron, Ohio, for a FREE PropScan® analysis. We also straighten shafts, struts, rudders, have in-house welding capabilities, can assist with any new propeller purchase(s), or provide assistance with any other running gear needs you might have.
Come See Us in Huron, Ohio, call 419-433-9550, or visit us at northcoastproptech.com.
This article first appeared in the Winter Issue (Jan/Feb) 2019 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.
tags: Propellers, Service & Repair
