Propeller Wrenches, Pullers & Tools

Prop Wrenches, Prop Pullers & Prop Tools - Resources & Information

Propeller wrenches, pullers, and other tools are essential for maintaining and repairing the propeller on a boat or outboard engine. A prop wrench and other propeller tools can help to loosen and remove stuck propellers, align and install new propellers, and perform other maintenance tasks as needed.

PartsVu offers a complete selection of Propeller Wrenches, Pullers & Tools from OEM manufacturers and trusted aftermarket suppliers. Whether you need a floating prop wrench, Mercury prop wrench, and other propeller repair tools, PartsVu has what you need to get the job done. 

Need help servicing your boat and outboard engine? PartsVu regularly publishes helpful how-to guides and other valuable maintenance information to help boaters service their outboard engines, boats, trailers, and more. Browse the PartsVu Xchange, our outboard maintenance blog, for a wide range of relevant topics and review the FAQ section below, covering everything you need to know about maintaining your boat in confidence.

Propeller Wrenches, Pullers & Tools FAQ

What should I know about Propeller Wrenches, Pullers & Tools?

Here are a few key things to consider when using Propeller Wrenches, Pullers and Tools:

1. Choose the right prop tool for the job: There are many different types of propeller wrenches, pullers, and other tools available, and it is important to choose the right tool for the specific task at hand. For example, a propeller wrench is typically used to loosen and tighten the propeller nut, while a propeller puller is used to remove the propeller from the shaft.
2. Follow safety precautions: Propeller work can be dangerous, as the propeller can cause serious injury if it is not properly secured. It is important to follow all safety precautions and use caution when working with propeller wrenches, pullers, and other tools.
3. Use proper technique: Proper technique is important when using propeller wrenches, pullers, and other tools to ensure that the work is performed safely and effectively. For example, it is important to apply steady, even pressure when using a propeller wrench to avoid damaging the propeller or the tool.
4. Maintain the tools: Proper maintenance of propeller wrenches, pullers, and other tools can help to ensure that they are in good working condition and ready to use when needed. This may include cleaning and lubricating the tools, and replacing worn or damaged parts as needed.

Overall, propeller wrenches, pullers, and other tools are essential for maintaining and repairing the propeller on a boat or outboard engine. It is important to choose the right tools for the job, follow safety precautions, use proper technique, and maintain the tools to ensure the best possible results.

How do I use a propeller wrench?

A propeller wrench is a tool used to loosen and tighten the propeller on a boat's outboard motor. To use a propeller wrench:

1. Identify the propeller nut on the outboard motor. This is typically a large nut located at the base of the propeller.
2. Place the propeller wrench onto the nut and ensure that it is fully seated.
3. Turn the propeller wrench counterclockwise to loosen the nut. This will allow you to remove the propeller from the outboard motor.
4. Once the propeller is removed, you can then proceed to install a new propeller or perform any necessary maintenance on the outboard motor.
5. When you are finished, turn the propeller wrench clockwise to tighten the nut back onto the outboard motor. Be sure to tighten the nut securely, but be careful not to overtighten it, as this can cause damage to the outboard motor.

It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a propeller wrench, as different models of outboard motors may have slightly different procedures.

How to remove boat prop?

To remove a boat propeller, you will need a propeller wrench or a similar tool designed to loosen and tighten the propeller nut. Here are the steps to remove a boat propeller:

1. First, locate the propeller nut on the outboard motor. This is typically a large nut located at the base of the propeller.
2. Place the propeller wrench onto the nut and ensure that it is fully seated.
3. Turn the propeller wrench counterclockwise to loosen the nut. You may need to apply some force to loosen the nut, but be careful not to use too much force, as this can cause damage to the outboard motor.
4. Once the nut is loose, you can gently wiggle the propeller to help loosen it from the outboard motor.
5. Once the propeller is loose, you can gently pull it off the outboard motor.

It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when removing a boat propeller, as different models of outboard motors may have slightly different procedures. If you are unsure how to remove the propeller, or if you encounter any difficulty, it's a good idea to consult a professional mechanic or the manufacturer of your outboard motor.

What is a prop nut wrench?

A prop nut wrench, also known as a “propeller wrench” or “boat prop wrench”, is a tool used to loosen and tighten the propeller nut on a boat's outboard motor. The propeller nut is a large nut located at the base of the propeller that secures the propeller to the outboard motor. A prop nut wrench is a specialized tool that fits over the nut and allows you to apply torque to loosen or tighten the nut as needed.

Prop nut wrenches are typically made of metal and are designed to be strong and durable. They come in a variety of sizes to fit different sizes of propeller nuts, and may have a handle or other grip to make it easier to hold and turn. Some prop nut wrenches are designed to be used with a socket wrench or other type of mechanical leverage, while others may be designed to be turned by hand.

In addition to prop nut wrenches, boaters can choose another type of propeller removal tool that can be used to loosen and tighten propeller nuts, such as a strap wrench or a pipe wrench. However, a prop nut wrench is a specifically designed for this purpose and is typically the most effective prop removal tool for the job.

What is a propeller puller used for on boats?

A propeller puller is a tool used to remove the propeller from a boat's outboard motor. It is typically used when you need to remove the propeller for maintenance, repair, or replacement purposes.

To use a propeller puller, you will first need to remove the propeller nut using a propeller wrench or similar tool. Once the nut is removed, you can insert the propeller puller into the space where the propeller was attached to the outboard motor. The propeller puller typically consists of a central shaft with a series of arms or other mechanical components that can be adjusted to fit around the propeller and provide leverage to pull it off the outboard motor.

To use the propeller puller, you will need to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Some propeller pullers may require the use of a hammer or other tool to tap the shaft into place, while others may be designed to be tightened by hand. Once the propeller puller is in place, you can turn the central shaft or handle to apply leverage and slowly pull the propeller off the outboard motor.

It's important to be careful when using a propeller puller, as applying too much force or using the tool improperly can cause damage to the outboard motor or the propeller. If you are unsure how to use a propeller puller, or if you encounter any difficulty, it's a good idea to consult a professional mechanic or the manufacturer of your outboard motor.

What outboard engine tools should I have onboard?

Even if you don’t do your own maintenance, all boaters need some basic boat tools in their marine tool kits to help them out of a jam. Of course, if you plan to do your own maintenance or a portion of your own maintenance, you’ll need to be a bit better equipped.

So which boat tools should you have onboard? The following are our recommendations and the reasons behind them. Of course, the tools you should have onboard are significantly dictated by the type of boating you do. As a practical matter, a near-shore, freshwater boater needs fewer tools than an off-shore boater. While a problem close to the shore can be an annoyance, a problem off-shore might be a whole different matter.

• Fuel filter wrench—good idea to have on board if you get enough water or debris in your fuel system that a fuel filter change becomes necessary.
• Adjustable band filter wrench—you may need to change your fuel/water separating filter if you have water in your system or if you got some bad gas at the marina. US marinas nearly always sell high-quality filtered gasoline, but marinas in the Bahamas are notorious for selling contaminated gasoline.
• Deck fill key/deck plate key/spanner wrench—these universal tools are designed to open all types and sizes of deck fill lids and shackles. Many of these tools also include bonus tools like bottle openers. Perfect for a cold one after fishing.
• Toolkit—if you have room on your boat, all-purpose toolkits can come in handy. 
• Pliers—channel lock, standard, and needle nose
• Leatherman–a very helpful all-purpose tool.
• Rigging knife
• Serrated knife—for cutting rope, your all-purpose tool might include a serrated blade.
• Flashlight
• Emergency plug set—in case a leak manifests while you are out on the water.
• Battery booster pack
• Battery terminal cleaner
• Zip ties—because we all know that you can fix almost everything with zip ties and duct tape.
• Duct tape

What type of propeller maintenance should boaters do?

Routinely inspect boat propellers for larger knicks and make sure the blades are not bent. Also, remove the propeller every six weeks. Fishing line tends to wrap around behind the thrust washer, which can lead to a seal failure.

With a ball-peen hammer, tap the edge of the washer to knock it loose so the fishing line can be removed. When putting it back together, apply a light coating of grease on the splines.

What are hub kits for propellers?

Hub kits for propellers are sets of hardware that are used to attach a boat's propeller to its drive shaft. A typical hub kit will include a hub, which fits over the end of the drive shaft, and a set of bolts or other fasteners that are used to secure the propeller to the hub. The purpose of a hub kit is to provide a strong, stable connection between the propeller and the drive shaft, which is necessary for the propeller to be able to turn and move the boat through the water. Hub kits are an important part of a boat's propulsion system and are typically specific to the make and model of the boat and its engine.

Where can I learn more about Propeller Wrenches, Pullers & Tools?

PartsVu has plenty of resources for everything you need to know about Propeller Wrenches, Pullers & Tools, as well useful information about propellers for your boat and all models of popular outboard motors. Start with the following guides and be sure to use the search bar to find plenty of other useful guides to maintain your boat in confidence:

• Selecting the Yamaha Propeller That’s Best for You
• Boat Propeller Physics—Insight from Turning Point Propellers
• How to Install a Propeller on a Mercury Outboard?
• How 4-Blade Mercury Marine Propellers Enhance the Performance of Heavy Multi-Species Fishing Boats
• Selecting the Yamaha Propeller That’s Best for You
• Quicksilver Nemesis Propeller Review
• Mercury Fury 4 Blade Propeller – More Lift Even with a Heavy Load