Sailing Zephyr IV · video

What this video covers

Dave replaces the fixed 17-inch three-bladed propeller on Zephyr IV, a Westerly Yachts hull designed by Ed Dubois, with a three-bladed Featherstream folding propeller made by Darglo.0:26 The decision followed seeing a Featherstream on a boat at Victoria Quay, where owner Nick of Tenacious Covers praised its performance.0:35 Dave drove to Darglo's facility in Wareham to hand-deliver the old prop and fixing nut so Darglo could replicate the shaft taper.1:06 Installer Mark of Now Marine fitted the new propeller, paying close attention to key-slot clearance and shaft-thread fit as Darglo specified.1:56 Sea trials in Portsmouth Harbour showed Zephyr IV reaching maximum hull speed at around 2,600 rpm, with minimal prop walk in reverse and more precise stern steering than before.2:42 Under sail the following day, feathering required stopping shaft rotation by engaging astern, after which the blades folded and the shaft stopped turning.3:07 In moderate winds the boat rarely dropped below 6 knots and often exceeded 7.3:21 The ambassador rope cutter was cleaned and retained on the shaft.1:39 Reduced drag from a folding propeller produces measurable speed gains even in moderate winds, with the added benefit of cleaner astern handling.

Boats in this video

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