Search
Propeller
Volvo IPS 850
August 8, 2007 - 4:52pm — Dick Aarons- Boat Handling
- Diesel
- Propeller
The Volvo Penta IPS system is now offered by more than 60 builders worldwide and is installed on approximatley 450 different models. There will continue to be naysayers who gripe that having a forward facing prop will expose the propellers in case of a grounding or water debris. However, this magazine has conducted several tests (See “The Future of Power,” April, 2007) and has concluded that the benefits far outweigh this one issue. In fact, we’ll be following up with a story of a boat with IPS hitting a log in New York Harbor. Yes, the boat had to limp home on one engine, but chances are that log would have damaged a conventional boat as well. However, the best part is that the next day Volvo service changed the entire unit within two hours! No struts to remove, or shafts to align.
The Turning Of The Screw: Understanding Propeller Fundamentals
January 7, 2007 - 8:00am — Peter Frederiksen- JANUARY 2005
- Propeller
When all is said and done, it is the propeller that turns engine horsepower into speed. Despite this critical point, many myths exist in the world of propellers sometimes creating an aura of mysterious black magic. To the contrary, propeller selection and overall performance is really black and white. A boat can only go so fast based on its shape, horsepower and ambient conditions. It is all about physics. So, no matter what anyone promises you, a new propeller will not turn your 15-knot cruiser into a 35-knot power racer unless it is on a trailer being towed down the interstate.
