How to Change a Boat Propeller

You can learn how to change a boat propeller by yourself instead of calling in the professionals. All you need to do is have the right tools, some help from a few friends and you will soon be sailing and having fun.

What You Will Need:
New Propeller
Ratchet Set
Gloves
Socket Wrench
Prop Puller
Marker or Pencil

Step 1 – Buy a New Propeller

Take a trip to the local boat supply store and buy a propeller for your boat. There are two types of propellers; steel and aluminum. It is better to choose the steel propeller as it will last longer than the aluminum propeller. Though it is a bit more expensive, it is worth the investment.

Step 2 – Buy a Prop Puller

Pick up a good prop puller at the supply store as you will need this to remove the old propeller easily. A prop puller can save you more than half the time if you try to remove the propeller with your hands.

Step 3 – Mark the Position of the Old Propeller

Take a marker or pencil and mark the position of the old propeller before you take it off. This will help you know the correct position to install the new propeller.

Step 4 – Mark the Location on the Propeller Shaft

Mark the position of the old propeller on the shaft so that you will know how far the new propeller should go on the shaft.

Step 5 – Loosen the Nut

Begin to loosen the retaining nut to remove the old propeller. Use the ratchet and turn one blade at a time. Remember not to loosen the nut completely. In case the propellers get stuck, you can use the prop puller to remove the blades. This will make the job easier.

Step 6 – Remove the Propeller

Once you have loosened the retaining nut and the propeller is loose, remove the old propeller from the shaft by pulling it off.

Step 7 – Check for Damages

After removing the old propeller, check the shaft for any damages.

Step 8 – Check the Key Way

Check the key way for any damages before installing the new propeller.

Step 9 – Unpack the New Propeller

Unpack the new propeller from its package and keep the nuts ready.

Step 10 – Install the New Propeller

Slide your new propeller onto the shaft taking note of the course of the key way.

Step 11 – Position the Propeller

Use the markings you made earlier in step 3 to align the new propeller. Make sure your new propeller is in the right position and the right place on the shaft.

Step 12 – Fix the Nut

Once the new propeller is in the right place, use a wrench to tighten the nut onto the shaft. Make sure the nut is tightened well. That’s all that you need to do to get your new propeller fixed on your boat. Happy Sailing!