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Are you experiencing a drop in RPM on your high-performance boat? Your propeller might be the culprit. Understanding propeller troubleshooting is essential for maintaining peak performance on the water. Here are five signs indicating fouling issues that could be impacting your propeller’s RPM:

1. Reduced RPM without Engine Changes

If you notice a decrease in RPM without any changes to the engine or throttle settings, it could indicate fouling. This sign often points to a propeller clogged with debris or marine growth.

2. Vibrations During Operation

Excessive vibrations during operation are a clear indicator of propeller issues. Fouling, such as tangled fishing lines or seaweed wrapped around the propeller, can cause these vibrations, affecting RPM.

3. Unusual Noise Levels

An increase in unusual noise levels, such as rattling or humming, could signal fouling problems. Inspect the propeller for foreign objects or damage that might be hindering its performance.

4. Sluggish Acceleration

Fouling can lead to sluggish acceleration, impacting your boat’s ability to reach optimal speeds. If you’re experiencing delayed acceleration despite full throttle, it’s time to inspect the propeller.

5. Decreased Fuel Efficiency

An unexpected decrease in fuel efficiency could be linked to fouling issues with the propeller. When the propeller struggles due to fouling, it requires more power, resulting in increased fuel consumption.

Conclusion: Addressing Fouling Issues for Peak Performance

Maintaining a high-performance boat involves regular propeller maintenance and troubleshooting. If you’re encountering reduced RPM or any of the mentioned signs, promptly inspect the propeller for fouling issues. Clearing debris, cleaning the propeller, or seeking professional assistance can restore optimal RPM and performance.

In summary, understanding the signs of fouling issues affecting your propeller’s RPM is crucial for ensuring your high-performance boat operates at its best. Keep an eye out for these indicators and address any fouling promptly to enjoy smooth and efficient sailing experiences.

PropGlide® provides a highly effective solution to address propeller problems caused by fouling. PropGlide® specialized product is designed to prevent marine growth from adhering to propellers, significantly reducing fouling-related issues and their impact on propeller performance.

PropGlide™ Reviews

PropGlide USA Corp began its innovative approach to solving the issue of fouling on the props and running gear of vessels back in 2006. Since then PropGlide has perfected the formulation, achieved remarkable results, and has become the best affordable solution for boaters worldwide.

PropGlide™ Customer Reviews

The following reviews are provided by actual customers who have purchased either the PropGlide™ 250ML Foul Release Small Kit, PropGlide™ 625ML Foul Release Medium Kit, or the PropGlide™ 1250ML Foul Release Large Kit and have submitted a product review through Verified Reviews, an independent, trusted third party review provider that specializes in the collection, moderation and display of ratings and reviews. The reviews can be found on each of the respective product pages or on the Bottom Paint Store Verified Reviews account page.

“Highly rated product”.- Scott H

“Great tried something last year and came back to PropGlide this year.- Carl R.


PropGlide is an excellent protective coating for my propellers.- Louis S.


Easy to use. Too soon to comment on how it works. My boat is not yet in the water.-
Goes on as described, the prep is the hard part. We will see how it works when I drop it in the water in the new few weeks. Expect it to work as advertised. I ended up with the medium kit and it was way too much for me. 2 – 3 bladed props about 12 inch blades plus the shafts. Better to have too much than too little I guess but next time I will order the small instead of medium.”

“I have used it before and (it) works great.”

“Easier to apply than Propspeed. Almost twice as long between the primer and the top coat.”


“It’s always nice to be able to order and receive in a timely fashion what you need for your boat running gear.”- Curtis S.


“Easy to apply, looks good.”- Greg D.

“Just applied it. We will see how it works during the coming season”.- Shawn H.

“Product works great and is a reasonable price.”


“Excellent. Love this product. Strongly recommend.”

“I have not had time to apply the Prop glide yet. I just received it this evening.” – Mike Z

“Good product. Less expensive than PropSpeed. Great price”!

“Product works well on running gear when applied properly. Follow instructions on application”.- Charles O.


“Works as advertised”.- Raymond R.

The following testimonial was provided outside of Verified Reviews.

“We applied PropGlide to the propellers and rudders on our 42′ power catamaran in March 2016. We have found excellent results so far with very little growth appearing on the running gear. We have been able to maintain great boat speed, excellent economy and no vibrations unlike previous years with using other products. Our Applicator has even commentated how much easier PropGlide is to apply compared to its competitors.” – Mick M.

If you have any questions about foul-release coating systems for your underwater propellers and running gear please see our numerous how to articles on PropGlide or you can call our technical support team 888-505-2313.

 

Antifouling Paint or Prop Glide for Outdrives?

Which method of protective propeller coating is best for your boat? While there is no right or wrong solution, there are a few things to consider before making your decision.

Important questions to ask:

  1. Do you haul and repaint your boat every year?
  2. Does the prop see regular use?

Antifouling Paint – If you answered NO to the second question, you will likely be better off with traditional antifouling paint protecting your outdrive. Slick film coatings need to see regular use in order to repel fouling successfully. And if you answered YES to the first question, the additional cost of slick film coatings may not be worth it for you.

Which antifouling products are recommended for outdrives? Here are two good options.

Option 1 – Apply Tuff Stuff epoxy primer (or similar primer) direct to the metal. Paint over with a copper free bottom paint such as Colorkote. (It is very important to only use a copper-free bottom paint. Copper-based paints on underwater metals will experience galvanic corrosion.) This option guarantees the best protection and longest lasting coverage, but the paint will need to be recoated each season depending on prop usage.

Option 2 – Apply an aerosol underwater metal coating such as Barnacle Blocker or Pettit Barnacle Barrier. These are relatively inexpensive coatings that could provide a large amount of pay off.

PropGlide™ Propeller and Running Gear Coatings – If you answered YES to the second question above then you may want to give foul-release systems a try. These are non-toxic, slick coatings that prevent growth from attaching itself to the prop and running gear, thus improving your boat speed and fuel efficiency. It is important to note that for PropGlide to keep its slick quality and repel fouling, the prop needs to see regular use. Without the pesticide coatings of traditional bottom paint, a stationary prop is an easy target for barnacles and other organisms. While slick film coatings may not be the solution for all boaters, many have tried it and had great success. Note what some PropGlide users have stated below.

“For over a year, we at the Big Boat Shed ship repair and storage yard for vessels up to 60ft have been trialing out PropGlide. We have found it very user friendly and has a better finish when compared to its competitors. With our tropical humid conditions we could not have asked for a better drying time then what PropGlide offers. This allows us to plan prepare and execute any prop coating task with PropGlide such a breeze. PropGlide is now our main recommended brand for propeller and running gear antifouling coatings.” 3/8/2017

“We applied PropGlide to the propellers and rudders on our 42′ power catamaran in March 2016. We have found excellent results so far with very little growth appearing on the running gear. We have been able to maintain great boat speed, excellent economy and no vibrations unlike previous years with using other products. Our Applicator has even commentated how much easier PropGlide is to apply compared to its competitors.” Mick Malone 9/28/2016

Click this link to compare the price of Propspeed kits and PropGlide™ Propeller Paint Kits.
Click this link to read about Painting an Aluminum Outdrive

PROPGLIDE TECHNICAL DATA & APPLICATION GUIDE

PropGlide is an environmentally friendly foul release coating for boat propellers and running gear which prevents the attachment of marine growth by low critical surface tension. PropGlide does not contain cuprous oxide or TBT compounds or any other toxic substances which might cause environmental pollution. PropGlide is sold in 4 size kits. Sailboat, Small, Medium and Large. For the best size kit for your application see: Which PropGlide Kit Size Do You Need?

Each PropGlide Kit contains various sizes of Primer Base (Part 1), Primer Hardener (Part 2), and a Clear Top Coat.

  • propglide foul release coatingSailboat Kit 175ML Kit (#PCK-175) Contents: 60ML Primer Base, 15ML Primer Hardener, 100ML Clear Topcoat
  • Small Kit 250ML Kit (#PCK-250) Contents: 120ML Primer Base, 30ML Primer Hardener, 100ML Clear Topcoat
  • Medium Kit 625ML Kit (#PCK-625) Contents: 300ML Primer Base, 75ML Primer Hardener, 250ML Clear Topcoat
  • Large Kit 1125ML Kit (#PCK-1125) Contents: 2-300ML Primer Base, 2-75ML Primer Hardener, 2-250ML Clear Topcoat

This PropGlide Technical Data & Application Guide will detail how to apply any size kit of PropGlide by detailing the best preparation of the surface and application of the etching primer, and the final application of the Clear Topcoat.

Preparation of the Surface

The preparation of the surfaces to be coated with PropGlide is the key for the product to work effectively.

1. Remove previous coatings, fouling organisms/marine growth from metal surfaces. All substrates that are to be coated with PropGlide must be bare metal. These areas should be machine sanded with a Dual Action sander fitted with a soft pad and 60-80 grit abrasive discs sandpaper. Sanding the surface by hand is recommended at hard-to-reach areas where the dual action sander cannot reach. Use 60 – 80 grit wet/dry sandpaper, with water as a lubricant. Make sure the sand paper is changed frequently to ensure the necessary profile is achieved. Hand sanding these hard-to-reach areas is required to ensure the surface is properly abraded. The shaft should be done with hand sanding rather than using a machine. From this point forward, there shouldn’t be any direct hand contact to areas which are to be coated with PropGlide. It is advisable to wear latex gloves as it will ensure the areas to be painted remain clean and sound.

2. Once the surface sanding process is completed, wash all the areas with clean fresh water and wipe with clean, lintfree cotton rags soaked in water to wipe off sanding residue. Continue doing this until the rags don’t show any sign of residue, contaminants or discoloration.

3. After cleansing with water is completed, use a rag soaked in acetone or denatured alcohol to remove water on the sanded surface.

Continue to use the rag until it becomes dry from evaporation of the acetone or denatured alcohol. Use one or more rags as required, until the rag looks white clean, as there will be no contaminants when the rag is white clean. Again, care should be taken not to touch cleaned surfaces with bare hands. This is because fingers and hands contain oils which can transfer to the cleaned surfaces and therefore would inhibit the adhesion of the coatings.

Apply the Etching Primer

There is a Primer Base (Part 1) and a Primer Hardener (Part 2) to activate the primer base. This two-component etching primer dries chemically by reaction of the mixed components and provides protection against corrosion and increases the adhesive property of the subsequent coats. It may be used as a pre-treatment primer on non-ferrous metals such as bronze and aluminum as well as zinc and galvanised iron. May also be used as pre-treatment primer on blast-cleaned steel plates.

Temperature Limitations: Primer and Topcoat should be brought to 70-80°F (21-27°C) temperature range prior to mixing and application. Apply in good weather conditions when air and surface temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). Surface temperature must be a least 50°F (10°C).

PropGlide Etching Primer Physical Properties

  • Mixing Ratio: Primer Base (Part 1) : Primer Hardener (Part 2) = 4 : 1 by volume
  • Colour: Primer Base (Part 1) : Yellow, Primer Hardener (Part 2) : Clear
  • Dry Film Thickness: 8 microns
  • Drying Time: 5-15 minutes touch dry (temperature dependent)- 1 hour hard dry @ 20°C/68°F

Painting Interval: Apply PropGlide Clear TopCoat when Etching Primer is just touch dry Pot Life: 8 hrs @ 20°C/68°F

1. Agitate the Primer Base (Part 1) contents by scraping the bottom and sides of the can, as there will be settling. Mix contents of primer until the settled parts are incorporated back into solution and uniformly blended. Do not strain material, even if particles are present.

2. Stir Primer Hardener (Part 2) then add entire contents to the Primer Base (Part 1) container. Mix primer base and hardener for 30 seconds and apply mixture to sanded surface immediately after mixing.

3. Application of the Primer Base/Hardener mixture should be thin. The film should be thin enough, so that it is barely coating the surface, yet it does not provide sections or lines on the sanded surface that are not coated. Do not touch the primer mixture as it dries. The method of application of the primer may be done by using either a natural bristle brush or foam roller. 4. Apply a second coat of Primer Base/Hardener mixture after the first coat dries.

Apply the Clear Top Coat

The Clear Top Coat that should be applied to the last coat of Etching Primer within 5-15 minutes. The Clear Top Coat serves as a slick finish that will inhibit marine growth from attaching to the surface.

PropGlide Clear Top Coat Physical Properties:

  • Binder type: Silicone Polymer
  • Solvent: Xylene
  • Colour: Clear coating
  • Finish: Glossy
  • Dry time: 45 minutes touch dry ; 8 hours hard dry @ 20°C
  • Recommended film build: 75 microns per coat
  • Thinning: N/A
  • Clean up: Acetone
  • Shelf life: 12 months

1. After 5 to 15 minutes (depending on temperature) of applying the 2nd coat of Primer/Hardener mixture promptly apply the Top Coat. Application of Top Coat should be thicker than Primer/Hardener mixture, yet not thick enough so that the Top Coat produces runs. The Top Coat is to be applied with brush only, NO foam applicators are to be used.

2. Let the Top Coat dry overnight before launching.

Propspeed Vs. PropGlide

Propspeed ReviewFoul Release Systems Like Propspeed and PropGlide provide the best solution to keeping growth of your props and running gear. While these are not antifouling prop paints, they do keep the growth off buy creating a super slippery surface that the marine growth cannot stick to. Propspeed recommends that their kits by applied by a professional Propspeed applicator. On the other hand, PropGlide is available for any DIY applicator and is 30%+ less and more product for the money. If you want to apply this yourself, be sure to follow the details in the respective application manuals.   You can find these on any of the Propeller Foul Release Kit listed on our website.
PropGlide is newer to the market, but been in development for over ten years, while Propspeed  has been available for many years and is the leading brand name in the market place. The biggest issue with Propspeed is the cost. Very expensive!  PropGlide is also expensive but 30% less than Propspeed. In addition, you get 25% more product with PropGlide , so be sure to get the right size. You might be able to use a smaller size kit with PropGlide  which could then save you over 50%! You can find the comparison on PropGlide’s web site: Propspeed Compared

 

Performance of both coatings has been comparable, with much fewer complaints about PropGlide   Either they are just newer in the market with less complaints, or they truly have improved performance. Time will tell. At this point we recommend trying PropGlide  as a Propspeed alternative – since there is comparable performance with Propspeed, the cost savings alone is worth it! And PropGlide offers a sailboat size kit making it affordable now for sailboat owners.

This Propspeed review and PropGlide review is the sole opinion of BottomPaintStore.com

Note: Propspeed™ is a registered trademark of Oceanmax. Bottom Paint Store is not affiliated with Propspeed or Oceanmax in anyway. Above Propspeed prices and PropGlide prices are based on internet web search October 2016 .

PropGlide Frequently Asked Questions

logo-200x43 How does PropGlide work? PropGlide is a coating system that is applied to the props and underwater running gear of any vessel. Once applied, the PropGlide system reduces friction to the metal surface which greatly improves efficiency by not allowing growth to stick to the underwater metals. The result is an improvement in prop speed and fuel efficiency.

Is PropGlide toxic? Not at all. PropGlide contains no toxic biocides. It works be creating a super slippery surface not allowing growth to attach to the props and underwater metal.

Does PropGlide prevent barnacles and zebra mussels? No. It does not prevent from occurring. Barnacles and Zebra mussels will still grow. However, they will NOT attach. As soon as the vessel starts moving, the growth slides off with ease!

What can I expect after applying PropGlide to my props and running gear? You should expect growth not to stick to the properly prepared and kept surface while experiencing greater fuel efficiency and speed.

Can PropGlide be used in salt water and fresh water? Yes, PropGlide may be used in any type of water, including fresh water, salt water and brackish water conditions.

propglide foul release coatingHow long does it take to apply Propglide? The application time varies by the size of the prop(s) and running gear that you are covering, but typical application can be done in a few hours. Please see our application guidelines for detailed information. Note: Remember to wait overnight before launching your vessel!

Who can apply PropGlide? Unlike many other foul release coatings, you may apply PropGlide yourself by following the application guide, or you can contact a local boatyard or dealer in your area to apply it for you.

If I haul my boat after I have applied Propglide, will it still work after leaving the boat of the water? Yes, PropGlide can be left out of the water without affecting any performance of the system.

How long will PropGlide last? There are many factors that can affect the longevity of PropGlide including number of hours and kilometers traveled, various environmental factors including water temperature and purity. PropGlide will last 1-2 years depending on the above factors.

Can I recoat PropGlide during my next haul out? You must remove all of the old PropGlide by sandblasting, sanding, scraping, wire wheel or grinder. After all old PropGlide is removed down to the metal surface, clean the area to be primed with Xylol or Acetone. Recoat PropGlide using the application guidelines.

How to Prevent Growth on Boat Propellers and Running Gear

So you have gone to the expense of applying bottom paint to your boat, and now you have to ask the question “what about propeller paint and running gear paint? Just like the rest of the bottom of the boat, marine growth will cover the props and running gear if left unprotected. This will lead to loss of power and speed. With severe growth, you can even lose the ability to get the boat on plane.

There are a few options for keeping growth off your propellers and running gear and we will explore advantages and disadvantages for applying various coatings to your propellers and running gear. Keep in mind that when you paint props and running gear they are under extreme conditions with speed, cavitation, electrolysis and environmental conditions ( like running through sand or hitting ground or objects). These can cause the same result as sandblasting your running gear – something you will want to avoid after you choose a coating!

Foul release coatings are very smooth, extremely low friction coatings typically based on silicone or fluoropolymers. The combination of low friction and low surface energy is the physical mechanism behind its fouling release. In addition to preventing biofouling, they increase fuel efficiency  by providing more efficiencies to the engine and therefore less fuel is burned resulting in cost savings.

1. PropGlide Foul Release Coating | The Best Solution for Preventing Growth on Props and Running Gear

Advantages: Best adhesion, best performance, actual increase in speed, lowest risk of electrolysis issues, non-toxic
Disadvantages: Higher Cost, Environmental Variables (sand, running aground), Detailed application

Foul Release Systems provide the best solution to keeping growth of your props and running gear. While these are not antifouling prop paints, they do keep the growth off buy creating a super slippery surface that the marine growth cannot stick to. Propspeed recommends that their kits by applied by a professional Propspeed applicator. On the other hand, PropGlide is available for any DIY applicator and is less costly and more product for the money. If you want to apply this yourself, be sure to follow the details in the respective application manuals.   You can find these on any of the Propeller Foul Release Kit listed on our website.

PropGlide and Propspeed are foul release systems that are applied to underwater metals including props and running gears. These foul release coatings are sold in kits ranging from 175ML, 200ML, 500ML, and 1000ML Kits. You can view the all of our Foul Release Coatings to determine which kit size if right for you.

2. Paint the Props and Running Gear with Bottom Paint

Advantages: Lower cost option
Disadvantages: Trouble staying on, electrolysis concerns, Environmental Variables (sand, running aground)

Applying bottom paint to your underwater gear is a little tricky because there are additional steps that must be taken before applying the bottom paint. Especially if you have a fiberglass boat. Most bottom paints contain copper that act as a biocide and prevent growth. However, when applying bottom paint (with copper) to metal, you create a battery effect with the metal on metal. This leads to electrolysis and pitting of your props and running gear. Follow these basic steps before going with this option.

Basic Steps

  1. Prep: Make sure to remove all prior coatings and contaminants prior to applying any coatings. The should be done by a sandblasting, soda blasting, or a good ole fashioned sanding. The recommended grit and profile should be 80 grit. This will provide a efficient surface for the new coating to adhere.
  2. Tuff Stuff Marine Epoxy PrimerPrimer: Apply a two part high build epoxy primer that is designed to prevent corrosion and enhance adhesion. The best we have found is Sea Hawk Tuff Stuff High Build Epoxy Primer. It is easy to use and works extremely well. Apply two coats!
  3. Bottom Paint: Apply a hard modified epoxy bottom paint with not too high a load of copper. Sea Hawk Sharkskin hard paint is a great choice! The epoxy primer will insulate the copper bottom paint from the metal of the props and Sea Hawk Smart Solution Outdrive Paintrunning gear (remember the battery effect!) If you are concerned about electrolysis or already have some issues, then you should use a copper free bottom paint. The only true metal free bottom paint that we found and that still is effective in preventing growth is Sea Hawk Smart Solution. Either way, be sure to apply the first coat of bottom paint the same day as the 2nd coat of epoxy primer. If you don’t, it will not stick!

3. Aerosol Sprays

Advantages: Lowest cost option
Disadvantages: Trouble staying on, ineffective antifouling performance, electrolysis concerns if copper based, Environmental Variables (sand, running aground).

There are a few aerosol spray systems that can be used, but these are generally ineffective for props and running gear, and are reserved for outdrive applications. These include Interlux Trilux 33 and Primocon, Pettit Alumaspray and Prop Coat Barnacle Barrier, and the Sea Hawk Premium Outdrive Kit that contains Smart Solution (brush on Pint) and Barnacle Blocker. Our advice is to save your money before applying these to props and running gear.

Note: Propspeed™ is a registered trademark of Oceanmax. Bottom Paint Store is not affiliated with Propspeed or Oceanmax in anyway. Above Propspeed prices and PropGlide Prices are based on internet web search October 2016 .

What is the Best Bottom Paint Money Can Buy?

Best Bottom Paint

Best Performing Bottom Paint

The best bottom paint that money can buy may NOT be the most expensive. You should buy the bottom paint that works best in your area. That will depend on the temperature of the water, tide changes, the nutrients in the water that feed unwanted growth, and many other factors.

The best bottom paint for you will be the bottom paint that stops the growth and does not break your wallet. If you buy the best performing bottom for the harshest fouling conditions and the warmest waters you would need Sea Hawk Paints Biocop TF  or another Top Performing Bottom Paint. This provides you the absolute maximum protection against hard and soft growth on the bottom of your boat. This solution is recommended for high growth areas, or if you are trying to goes as long as you possibly can between bottom jobs. If you are in cooler climates or lower fouling conditions you would NOT need to spend the extra money on Sea Hawk Biocop TF. A better choice that is less expensive and will work in these conditions is Sea Hawk AF-33 or the equivalent.

ALUMINUM BOATS: The best bottom paint for an aluminum boat or pontoons is a copper free bottom paint. You cannot put the paints mentioned above (Copper-Based) on aluminum because they contain copper and will react like a battery causing pitting (holes) on aluminum. Therefore, we recommend an Aluminum Safe Bottom Paint. A good choice for aluminum is  Sea Hawk Colorkote, it is copper free triple biocide paint  safe for aluminum. If the aluminum has never been painted the best practice is to prime with high build epoxy primer like Sea Hawk Tuff Stuff to insure good adhesion and protect against corrosion. If you are painting a pontoon boat for the first time – try our Pontoon Bottom Paint Kit.

Premium Outdrive bottom paint kitThe best bottom paint for the outdrives is to brush on Smart Solution. (pint size).  If your outdrive has never been painted before, you can use Barnacle Blocker Primer for priming the area application of bottom paint. A great value for this is the Premium Outdrive Bottom Paint Kit. If there is already a bottom paint on your running gear, just scuff sand and paint! Another option is to try an aerosol spray bottom paint. These are easy to apply.

For outdrives a foul release agent may be the choice for you, see here.