Sailing Catalpa · video

What this video covers

The crew of Catalpa replaces a worn, vibrating Max-Prop with a 22-inch, 14-pitch fixed propeller while anchored in 3 meters of clear water near La Paz, Mexico.9:33 The original Max-Prop, set at an 18-degree pitch, caused engine overheating, failed to reach maximum RPM, and exhibited significant vibration due to electrolysis and worn internal fittings.3:36 To perform the underwater swap without hauling out, the crew uses a borrowed two-hose surface-supplied air system (hooker) to allow two divers to work simultaneously.10:10 After removing the Max-Prop with a puller and installing the fixed propeller, the crew modifies a mismatched nut to secure the assembly.12:11 Sea trials confirm the vibration is resolved, though the fixed propeller exhibits a "singing" noise at certain RPMs and results in a lower cruising speed of 6.4 knots compared to the previous 8 knots.17:01 Replacing a propeller in the water is a viable alternative to a haul-out when clear, shallow, current-free water is available.5:24

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