"dbraun" wrote in message
lkaboutboats.com...
wrote:

Back to more questions somewhat related to the Perkins 4-108. This
sailboat
is a pig to back up. It really wants to prop walk to starboard.
According
to
the owner, it's got a fixed, 3-blade prop. I believe the boat also has a

folding prop aboard in a locker. Would that help?

First off, put me in the camp that recommends technique as a means for
neutralizing prop walk. You seriously do not want to eliminate prop walk
as it is the only thing that will turn the stern of your boat predictably
and reliably. People's biggest beef is that it will turn the stern in only
one direction and I can see that if you're viewing boats as watery
versions of cars, then this would be a little upsetting. If you want to
see what prop walk can do, check out the Dashew video "Dashew Offshore".
They are able to spin their vessel 360 degress with ZERO headway. All
technique.

That said, I can understand where some people may not be in the right
frame of mind to learn technique (think reluctant sailing wife being given
"verbal hints" when backing down an anchor). You also mentioned that the
vessel was being sailed in SF bay. You may want to know that there is a
prop shop called Bay Propeller (510-337-9122) that has a technique for
modifying fixed props. They tap the blade tips over to create little
tiplets. They claim it eliminates prop walk AND increases thrust. I have
no personal experience with their results, but it would be worth a try.

David

David, please show me where I said I wanted to eliminate prop walk? It's
excessive in my experience, and I'm looking for a non-technique solution.

I've never know anyone who was seriously into sailing who does not
eventually get in the "right" frame of mind to learn technique.

In any case, thanks for the number!

I or the owner will give them a call.

Jonathan

--
"j" ganz @@
www.sailnow.com