DIY Idea: Cleaning Propeller Without Hauling Out — Worth It or Waste of Time? (Prototype pics)

[Todor Mihaylov]

Hey all,

I'm working on a project idea around DIY maintenance for recreational boats — mainly trying to tackle propeller fouling without the need to haul out or hire divers.

I posted a few rough pics of a basic prototype I’ve been testing. The goal is something simple, low-cost, and usable while the boat stays afloat.

I'm wondering from a design/engineering point of view:

• Would something like this realistically work in most marina conditions?
  
  
• What do you see as the biggest mechanical or usability issues?
  
  
• Is it even worth trying to DIY clean props in water, or would most owners just stick to haul-outs?

If you have thoughts, I'd love your advice.

(Also, if you’re open to it, I made a short 3-minute survey to gather more opinions:
Willingness to Pay for a DIY Propeller Cleaner https://forms.gle/MQoX9zNhizj29LNN6)

Thanks a ton for any ideas or criticism — genuinely trying to learn from people who actually know boats better than me!

 

[gonzo]

That system may take some of the slime and grass. It won't help with hard growth like mussles and barnacles. You should try to see what a fouled propeller looks like after running the boat for a few minutes. Most of it will probably be washed off.

 

[Todor Mihaylov]

Thanks a lot — that’s exactly the kind of real-world insight I need.
You're right — I’m mostly thinking about light to medium fouling (grass, slime) that starts affecting performance mid-season, not hardcore barnacle buildup.

If you have a few minutes, I’d seriously value your opinion in the short survey I'm running (just 3–4 minutes):
Willingness to Pay for a DIY Propeller Cleaner https://forms.gle/MQoX9zNhizj29LNN6

Also — if you know any good boating groups, forums, or places where more experienced owners like you hang out, would love a recommendation!
Thanks again — every bit of advice helps me make this thing less useless

 

[gonzo]

This forum is the best. It is well regulated and full of experienced professionals and mariners.

 

[portacruise]

Some ideas.
Weed tangles and light growth as pictured can usually be removed by running the prop in reverse for a minute or so, assuming there is a reverse. At least that works for me anyway.

Study all the methods that are successfully used for cleaning hard surfaces, And see if any of them can be adapted to something like removing Barnacles underwater, with some kind of gadget. A mechanical brush is but one way which may not be strong enough as you have it. Maybe something like this,

Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/Zeluga-CG-1-Roto-Stripper-Metal/dp/B00002N9E2?th=1

Would help if it could be deployed from topside.

There may be Barnacle repellent coatings that can be incorporated into epoxy or other strong glue that can be painted onto the propeller. And lots of other ideas like heat/cold, chemicals, possibly electrical methods, etc.

 

[gonzo]

There are antifouling coatings for propellers

 

[montero]

Each boat should have the ability to go ashore on its own .Unfortunately very few boats can do this.
Scuba gear and sharp knife are necessary sometimes.
And sometimes its not enough , lot physical and mental endurance , chainsaw and very long drills are needed.