prop puller vs prop knocker

[scottb7]

I am soon to replace my prop. So getting educated about pullers. Check out this out? $40 instead of $80. I guess it is used on 5 blade props when there is not room between blades for a puller. I guess if good enough for people that can afford 5 blade props it is probably good enough for me.

Anyone used one and have thoughts?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXcmT_ftlSM

Many will say just spend the $80 it is not safe....

http://www.samsmarine.com/forums/sho...p-Removal-Tool

[Zach@n3]

We use the acme harmonic puller as regular practice in the shop. Works well even on the most stubborn props. Worse case I have used an air hammer with a flat nose to rattle the puller.

[DanielC]

I, on the other hand have not had as good of luck with the harmonic puller. I use the C-clamp type.
On a really stubborn propeller, heating the hub of the propeller, while putting tension on the prop with the C-clamp puller, removes the propeller easily.

[nyryan2001]

^^^ yep C clamp cranked down till it bends slightly and a heavy hammer swung hard.... You'll need hearing protection as its wicked loud.

still wont come off? Add heat via torch to the base of the prop and a hard hit with a heavy hammer. It'll come off.

[scottb7]

I went ahead and ordered the prop knocker...and the acme 1433. (currently running the oem 645). might have to ban those pesky slalom guys from skiing behind my boat...heard i might lose like 5 mph top end.

[swankster]

I had a 5 blade and had to use the Acme harmonic puller. Now I'm back to 4 blades but still use the harmonic puller. It works great, but you just have to be on target with the hammer which can be tricky because the rudder tends to be in the way.

[scottb7]

On target, meaning, try to hit dead center? You don't have to hit it too hard do you? And you hand tighten the knocker first, right? But there is still a bit of room for the prop to break loose?

[swankster]

^Yes to all questions but the first. You don't have to be dead center but you don't want the hammer to slip off and hit the prop. I've made too many changes because of the lower water levels this year and have only had the hammer slip off once. It just put a small nick in the prop and since it needed repaired anyway there was not an issue. But if I was just changing props for performance, I would have been upset. It probably would not have caused a vibration issue, but who wants a ding in a perfect prop? Just hit it flat.

[Zach@n3]

Tighten the puller all the way then back it off 1/4 turn. It will back off more as you hit it and it vibrates. If a prop is installed properly (ie not over torqued) the harmonic will be the easiest thing you've ever used to remove a prop. Usually a one hitter.

[perry386]

My prop isn't nearly this difficult to get off. I just use a rubber mallet and light rasp the back of the propeller until it breaks free a little bit and then I can just wiggle it off.

[pe4me]

My experience is not extensive, x10, ps205, Dixie, Malibu skier and my 210 have never required a proper puller. Loosen nut and at most a rubber mallet tap. My nautique required nothing. Since u have ordered it maybe this would save some time when u go to loosen it.

[scottb7]

I used the prop knocker today. Absolutely works great. Couple hits like 3 or 4. Not even that hard. Boat is 2008 with original prop, never in salt water.