[Kenny's Toy]

Hi, I have seen a custom boat that is using a full length fiberglass shaft logs around the shafts( Paul Mann ), aparently this makes the boat go faster, some guys have tried it around here and swear they picked around 2 to 2.5 knots.
it not so difficult to do, the problem I have is with the zinc anodes on the shafts, what can I do to ground the shaft without anodes ??

[Northern Lights]

There is a zinc that is fitted to a prop nut. Typically the second locknut that retains the propeller is replaced with a special fitting. The fitting acts as a locknut and is also milled to hold a trailing cone zinc. The zinc now trails the prop hub. Very common fitting for race saiboats.

[Kenny's Toy]

Northern, thanks so where can i get some information on this special fitting ?

[CODOG]

I've not heard of this before. I'd be interested in seeing a photo / link to this.
A 2 knot increase in speed is a bit much to take on trust, my brain tells me the increased diameter of the shaft 'sheath' would if anything add to drag, unless the mechanics of it work because the rotating surface of the shaft is creating more drag originally. Cant see it personally, but would be happy to be proved wrong. Also, I'd be cautious about blocking the water getting into the P / A bracket bearing if indeed one was fitted. Is this 'sheath' around the shaft cylindical or is it shaped, perhaps with an aerofoil section ?

[Spinnaker]

Why don't you install shaft brush's and bond them?

[K1W1]

Hi,

What is a full length Fiberglass Shaft Log when it's at home?

It sounds like this is another term for the Stern Tube to me but I am happy to be corrected.

BTQ- Zincs are not used for grounding your shaft.

[Kenny's Toy]

K1W1 : , shaft tube, stern tube i really don't know how its called
but i have seen it work, I think this idea was picked up from some boatbuilder in Stuart, there have been like 5 boats that have done this modification and all of them picked up some speed, im looking to do this myself next month when my boat is hauled..

Spinnaker : don't know what a shaft brush is , but I will do a search thank you......

[Spinnaker]

Originally Posted by Kenny's Toy

Spinnaker : don't know what a shaft brush is , but I will do a search thank you......

Shaft brushes work vertually the same as the motor and brushes on an elec. drill. Between the coupler @ the transnision and the shaft log you install a spring loaded lever whereas the spring tension holds the connection against the shaft. This is bonded. http://www.boatelectric.com/shftbrBE.htm These are incredibly easy to fabricate yourself.