444 CPMY.

[Foster15]

Hi. I purchased a 2001 444 last fall and had props sent out for scanning. I am told they are of Canadian manufacture (24 x 30) and the blades are not welded equal distance around hubs. Rear cutless bearings wore out in less than 400 hours.
Anyone heard of this issue?

Lots of $'s to replace.

Thanks

[tomschauer]

It sounds like you are trying to say they were not balanced. No matter if they were manufactured in Canada, US or China, I would think if they were significantly out of balance you would have felt some vibrations when cruising. I would also think, props out of balance could shorten the life of the cutlass bearings, but shaft alignment would also accelerate the bearing wear, with less noticeable vibration.

[Lyndon670]

+1

You would feel it while cruising. That being said, you did mention that you had just bought the boat, so you may not have noticed it as you wouldn't already have a baseline.

Also, as mentioned above - with no noticable vibration present, an incorrectly aligned shaft will take out cutlass bearings before props that you don't notice a vibration from.

[Ramsport47]

+1

Also, to add to the conversation. Prop blades are NEVER welded on. The entire prop is molded as one piece. If a prop shop told you they were "welded" in the wrong position, I would look for a new prop shop. It sounds more like they want to sell you a new set of props than repair what you have.

[Hugo]

No welding there, molded like Ramsport said.

Also with 24X30 on that you are most likely over propped. Make sure you are reaching 50-100 RPM over manufacture WOT or the motors are next.