Malibu Boats Sportster Series, Owner'S Manual

Page: 55 / 76

3-13
Propellers
Nothing is more important to the proper performance of your boat than the condition of
the propeller. Even slight propeller damage can mean the loss of one MPH. Greater
damage can mean considerably more speed loss. Worse yet, damage usually is not done
to each blade uniformly and, therefore, sets up imbalanced vibrations that can cause
fatigue damage to other parts of the engine or drive system.
Your propeller is custom calibrated for your
Malibu by our Research and Design team to
give maximum performance. Before
installing props other than those suggested
by Malibu contact your dealer, otherwise
adverse handling and top speed
characteristics may be experienced.
The prop is identified by two numbers, i.e.,
13 x 14, and material identification such as
brass or stainless steel. The first number is
the diameter of the prop and the second is
the pitch. The pitch is the angle of the
blades and is measured in how far the boat will travel through the water in one
revolution. In this case, for every one revolution the boat will travel 14 inches.
Do not operate engine above the manufacturer’s
recommended RPM rating; severe damage could result,
voiding the warranty.
At least once a year, more often if you use your boat extensively, you should have your
local Malibu dealer inspect the propeller for any possible damage.
At least once a month, if you use your boat regularly, you should check and tighten the
prop nut. If it is necessary to remove the prop, use care. If the prop is not removed
correctly, damage could result if it comes off the shaft too quickly and hits the ground.
Whenever possible, use a prop pulling tool to remove prop, this will reduce the chance of
damaging the prop.
Warning
KC-2220M
Figure 3-13. Propeller