2 Blade vs 3 Blade

[Wayne mtl qc]

This is something that was probably talked about a zillion times but that doesn't count for me because my last race until I started again last year was 26 years ago.Like I was in a coma for 26 years.I am running a three blade like everyone else ,but I have this box in my basement with about 15 2blades in it.Is it worth trying these props, does anyone still run a 2 blade in competition in CSH . Thanks for any input. Cheers 96CE (RIP VAN WINKLE)

[reed28n]

Try everything

3 blade propellers give you some handling, but I will tell you that in 1998 Wakefield there was a CSR that qualified for the final running a two blade propeller. Maybe someone here knows who that was.

[pops67g]

2 blader = dodo bird

I have tested 2 vs. 3 bladers and found no reason to even think about reverting to the old days. Even at the same height and tuck, when the propellers have the same diameter and pitch the 3 blade will be considerably faster. Also, I am fairly sure that the improved handling at higher speeds (like we run in D) is due to the fact that we can jack the motor higher to get the gearcase out of the water and thereby kill some of its lift. Nobody likes that feeling when the back of the boat starts feeling like it's on a ball bearing.

[B Walker]

In theory, a one bladed propellor is the fastest in a straight line. I have heard of some people trying this for kilos. One bladed aircraft propellers are not uncommon. I have seen them at the Reno Air Races.

The problem is that we turn 6 times. 3 bladed propellors have proven themselves over time to have the best combination of top end, accelleration, and handling allowed by the current rulebook for Stock Outboard.

Two bladed props have another disadvantage in todays rule book. Your no longer allowed to "jack it up to the moon". Height restrictions have taken away two bladed props ability to turn higher RPM than a 3 bladed wheel.

But if the course was long enough and the turns wide enough and you could raise the motor high enough, I think a two bladed prop could compete.

Short course, tight turns, no way.

BW

[Dave M]

Best Option For 2 Blades

Send them to your favorite prop builder and have a bunch of four blades made, sell them to the Mod guys who can run 4 blades.

I have a kilo wheel that is two blade........ huge dang thing, and yes, it is fast on the 850CCMH. Takes forever and a day to get there though.

Unless you want to drive in the Kilos I would say sell off your two blades and purchase some new 3 blades with current technology.

[Wayne mtl qc]

Thanks Guy's

[propnuts]

In A stock

I don't have any experience running 2 blades in C, but I can tell you that some VERY successful racers still run 2 blades in A stock.

[Dancingbear1961]

Wayne,
I would test the 2 blades before you get rid of them! Remember, Whitney Point was no small course! Ya never know what you got until you try them!