[Public-List] Prop while sailing, locked or free to spin ?

[Randy Katz via Public-List]

Greetings,

My engine manual (Universal M3-20B diesel) says specifically to leave the
trans in neutral while sailing. Locking is a no-no in their book. (I also
have a 3 blade Michigan prop, for what that's worth. The boat at some point
had a 2 blade, which I carry as a spare.)

Regards,
Randy Katz
Simple Gifts #249
Bellingham/Seattle




Message: 2
Date: Fri, 22 Apr 2016 10:23:55 -0400
From: Jonathan Bresler via Public-List
        <public-list at lists.alberg30.org>
To: Alberg 30 Public List -- open to all
        <public-list at lists.alberg30.org>
Subject: [Public-List] Prop while sailing, locked or free to spin ?
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Folks,

Have heard from list members to lock the prop while while.  Several of our
racing members do so by putting the A-4 into gear after rotating the shaft
to "hide" the two blade prop behind the deadwood.   Some folks use a
vise-grip on the shaft with the handle against the hull to stop the shaft
and prop from spinning.

While sailing last night, I came up with a slightl different way to lock
the prop.  Wrapped the rubber strap from a rubber strap oil filter wrench
around the shaft till the handle was held against the hull.   Worked
great.  Getting it off, required a good steady pull on the handle to spin
the shaft backwards a few rotations.  Had picked up a pair of these strap
wrench at Advance Auto in their discount bin for $5.00, I seem to
remember.  Useful for removing the oil filter, as well.

So what do you do ?
Lock the shaft or not?
If you lock the shaft, how ?

Sample:
https://www.buysend.com/en-US/Product/Details/20985?U=2pc-silverline-500mm-600mm-mechanics-plumber-rubber-strap-wrenches/&gclid=Cj0KEQjwl-e4BRCwqeWkv8TWqOoBEiQAMocbP9E1Gluu36O8RLAr6XhNvZTNK4zs6HU8NoPloic7aY8aAs0c8P8HAQ

--
Jonathan M Bresler
S/V Constance Alberg 30 #262
Annapolis/Eastport MD