Upgrade to FeatherStream Propeller for Zephyr IV
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- Опубліковано 12 вер 2024
- I've replaced the old 3 Bladed Fixed propeller with a 3 bladed Featherstream propeller. This propeller feathers when not being powered so reduces the drag on the boat. It's a beautifully engineered propeller, almost a work of art.
Tests are ongoing but results to date are very positive. It works well under power, much more predictable in astern where there is negligible prop walk. Under sail, Zephyr IV seems more slippery and average speeds are definitely higher. I'll post more videos after we've had a season together.
Feather Stream is a propeller manufactured by Darglow in Wareham, UK.
www.darglow.co...
Hi Dave, we've fitted a feather stream to our Oceanquest, very happy with it. The people at Darglow are very helpful too. We are currently cruising to Scotland, and have been glad of the prop this week!
Hi Shaun, good to here from you. I've only been using the prop for a short time. But I'm very pleased with it so far. Already I'm more confident in Astern and the boat just seems more slippery through the water. Hope your cruise goes well. Stay safe :-)
Hey Dave, so pleased this has worked out well. Great video. Hope to catch you sometime soon ❤
Hi Nick, well I was hooked when I saw your Featherstream prop. It's a bit of a faff getting the information to Darglow, but the prop fitted perfectly. They certainly go all out to make sure that you get the best match to your boat. It's good to have the boat back in the water, hoping for good weather and more trips this year. Thanks for all your help .... Dave
I look forward to seeing more about its operations in different conditions. Might be something for me to consider. Thanks best.
Hi Mark, I'll try and pass on information about the props performance in the future videos. Very happy with it at the moment., though it does feel a bit different from the old prop. Mostly in a good way. Best Wishes .... Dave
That looks marvellous! So shiny! 🤩
It really is!
We fitted a Featherstream to our Fulmar 5 years ago - it's ben a joy! At least half a knot faster sailing, we sail closer to the wind and less prop walk in reverse.
Lovely to hear from you Winston, it's early days for me, just had a couple of outings since it was fitted. But the boat certainly goes faster and the Astern performance is reassuringly consistent. Best Wishes .. Dave
Well done Dave. Volvo and Darglow will have a policy on whether you should sail with the prop shaft locked or free and whether in reverse or forward gear. They are very clear that with my folder I have to sail with it in reverse. Fair winds
With the old fixed prop I always popped it in reverse to stop it rotating. I wasn't sure what would happen with the Feather Stream. Popping it in reverse stopped it rotating and I assume feathered it. Obviously there's not much friction in my shaft and gearbox.
Nice engineering!
Hi Tony, The engineering attracted me from the start. It's a shame it's hidden from view under the water :-)
Thank you. I am going to enquire about a featherstream.
If you talk to Darglow, tell them I sent you. It's not a cheap option, but it's working for me. Best wishes .... Dave