How good is a used SS prop?

midweste

Hey guys,

I've been eyeballing a few used Merc SS props to try on my bow rider. Is it a waste of money to buy a used prop? What if its a few years old? 

Pros/Cons? 

Thanks!

MW

Black_Diamond

Always look for damage..or repaired damage to start, can always find a deal out there if you are patient.  You can always send used ones out to get scanned and tuned. 

midweste

Thanks BD - Do you know how they scan and tune a prop? Is it similar to balancing a tire on a rim? 

Black_Diamond

Done right, way more complicated than that.  They run a trace on each blade in numerous diameters and you look at the profile and modify from there, it truely can make a big difference in performance.

These guys are by me, but there are many others: http://www.hollandpropeller.com/

mvn

I've bought and sold used ss props before.   You run a risk buying used like anything else.   I remember I looked at a Merc High-5 once.   The guy said it was immaculate.   When I drove over an hour to check it out and buy it,  it was obvious it became a Merc High-4 for a while until someone welded (poorly) the 5th blade back on.

Just be careful. 

Mark