How to Remove a Boat Prop

A boater should periodically remove and inspect the boat prop. The boat prop is exposed to water and damages easily. The blades of the boat prop can get cut and nicked. The boat prop draws in aquatic plants and fishing line which can impact the efficiency of fuel delivery to the prop. A periodic removal, inspection and repair of the prop are the most important part of boat maintenance.

The first step in removing a boat prop is to gather the tools and equipment for the procedure. A pair of leather gloves will keep the hands of the boater safe during the process. The tools required are a pair of pliers, a flathead screwdriver, a rubber mallet, a deep well socket and ratchet, a two by four and a 12 inc h adjustable wrench. A Prop Puller is a device specially intended to remove the prop.

The next step is to remove the nut retainer which will be in the form of a cotter pin or locking tab washer. The cotter pin can be straightened using pliers and a firm pull will remove the pin. The tabs of the locking tab washer should be dislodged if the washer is retaining the nut by pushing the tabs from underneath using a flathead screwdriver.

The propeller nut will be exposed after the retainer is removed. A two by four should be wedged firmly between the blades and the gear to prevent rotation. A socket and ratchet or wrench can be used to remove the nut. After removing the nut, any spacers connecting the shaft should be removed by sliding them off. The propeller will come off easily form its seat on the thrust washer. The thrust washer should be removed a replaced. To remove the thrust washer, the washer should be tapped lightly using a rubber mallet. If the washer does not come off, a flathead screwdriver can be used to remove the washer. The shaft should be greased with marine grade grease for easy removal the next time.

A Prop Puller can be used to pull the prop easily. The prop puller is a device specifically used to remove the prop. The puller is fastened to the prop and tightened till the prop falls off. Though prop pullers are efficient and time saving devices, the propeller will come off suddenly and fall to the ground. This could damage the prop. Adequate cushioning should be placed on the ground to prevent damage caused by the impact of the fall. A new inexpensive prop puller called the, 'Harmonic', prop puller connects to the nut and vibrates the propeller off. The vibration is produced by hitting the puller with a hammer. They are designed to remove propellers easily. Portable Prop Puller kits are available with all tools and a harmonic puller in a handy case that enables easy portability on the boat for emergency prop removal and replacement.

Learning how to remove a boat prop is useful for regular maintenance of the prop, emergency replacement of the prop and as a result optimum performance of the boat.