I have a new Beta 38 in a Westsail 32. On our first trip of any length I noticed very heavy prop walk, both reverse and forward, poor fuel economy (nearly 1 gallon/hour) and couldn't get the engine above 2600 without a significant rise in temp (didn't overheat, but went from a steady 165-170 to 195-200 and might have continued, but I backed off after 5 minutes). I could not reach 3000 at all. I didn't notice any smoke of any color. All of this was with a clean bottom in flat or nearly flat water. Speed was faster than I expected at low revs and possibly a touch less at 2200 where we cruised most of the time. But then it is a Westsail, not a rocket. So, what's the recommended prop for my configuration? I suspect I am over-pitched, but I don't know much about it. Incidentally, the engine ran a treat! No problems of any kind.
What make of prop are you using? What is the size?
The prop called for is 16"x14" three blade RH with 50 to 55% blade area ratio. These work very well and we have had good luck with the Michigan Wheel DJ355.
We have had some issues with some of the supposed sailor style propellers because the extreme twist that they put in their blades lugs the engine and the fat blades mess up reverse. They do cause all the problems that you are complaining about.
This info is good for the 3000 RPM version of the BV1505 with 2.5:1 ratio and for the latest 3600 RPM version with 3:1 ratio.
Please let me know how you get on. Regards, Stanley
I have a 16x16 3-blade. Don't know the manufacturer off-hand. I have the 1505 with a 2.5 reduction (PRM??) transmission. I'll look into getting my prop re-pitched or buying the Michigan Wheel prop and keep the one I have as a spare. Thanks.
The new engines are a differant spec to the older ones. The latest spec revs up to 3,600 instead of 3,000 RPM for the older non tier and tier2 engines. This changes the propeller requirement. Without knowing what boat you have and the transmission ratio, I cannot give you a better answer. Stanley
