Yamaha Outboard Propellers & Yamaha Propeller Hardware

Yamaha Propellers and Yamaha Propeller Hardware Resources and Information

Looking to replace your Yamaha propeller? PartsVu.com has got you covered. We offer Yamaha boat propellers in the full range of sizes, materials, and applications. From Performance 3 Stainless Steel propellers to lightweight aluminum propellers and everything in between, we have propellers to fit any common Yamaha outboard engine model.

Not sure which Yamaha propeller is right for you? Our Shop by Engine option quickly narrows down your choices according to Yamaha recommendations. Simply select your engine to see your recommended propeller type. From there, find the proper propeller pitch, prop diameter, and other attributes. For more assistance, our guide to selecting the best Yamaha propeller will help make your decision easy.

We stock a complete range of Yamaha outboard parts, and Yamaha propellers for every engine model including: 

• Yamaha propellers for Yamaha 2hp 2-stroke outboards

• Yamaha 9.9|15|F15C|F20 Propellers

• Yamaha Talon Propellers

• Yamaha K Series Propellers for 4.25" Gearcases

• Yamaha M or T Series Propellers for 4.75" Gearcases

We also regularly release new helpful resources like:

• Yamaha Outboard Engine Schematics

• Yamaha Outboard Maintenance Parts Charts

Yamaha Boat Props & Yamaha Propeller Hardware FAQ

How do I choose the right propeller for my Yamaha outboard motor?

Your propeller decision-making process will include the following factors: pitch, diameter, aluminum or steel, blade number, rake, cupping, and rotation. 

Pitch is a critically important factor when selecting a new propeller. Pitch is the distance the prop would travel forward after one complete rotation, assuming no resistance or slip. 

If you need more speed, a higher pitch is generally the way to go. However, If you use a propeller with a too high pitch, the motor won’t have enough horsepower to turn it adequately, so the revolutions per minute will drop. Referred to as over-propping, it overloads the engine and causes excessive wear. Under-propping—fitting a propeller with too low a diameter or pitch—can damage your engine through over-revving. Under-propping will also adversely affect fuel consumption. 

A larger diameter propeller reduces the RPM and top-end speed. On the other hand, smaller diameter propellers increase RPM and top-end speed. However, smaller diameter props slip more frequently and are not good choices if hole-shot or acceleration improvement is your goal. 

Aluminum propellers are the most common and the least expensive. Stainless steel propellers are more durable and generally perform better due to both thinner and stiffer blades.

Most commonly, propellers have either three or four blades. Three-blade propellers are most common on general use recreational boats. With only three blades in the water, they encounter less resistance increasing fuel efficiency, and they generally have minimal impact on your outboard engine’s RPM. 

Four-blade propellers improve hole-shot acceleration; therefore, commonly used on ski boats. These props improve handling and are generally better in rough water. 

Propeller rake is the angle that the blades slant backward. The higher the rake angle, the more the boat’s bow lifts out of the water. A high rake angle reduces time to plane and increases top-end speed. However, if a rake is too high, the outboard motor will operate under strain and experience premature wear.

A cupped propeller includes a curved lip to the trailing edge of propeller blades. It will get better traction in the water, reducing prop slip and ventilation, and improves hole-shot power and acceleration. Cupped props allow the engine to be trimmed so the propeller is closer to the water’s surface and can dramatically reduce RPM.

Rotation is not an issue for most boaters as most outboards rotate the propeller shaft and propeller clockwise. However, a few run counter-clockwise, especially in dual outboard setups in which one motor runs clockwise, and the other runs counter-clockwise for better balance. Make sure your selected prop is designed for the correct rotation.

What are the Yamaha propeller families for small boats?

• Reliance - Created specifically for high-horsepower, in-line four-cylinder outboards (F150, F175, and F200). It’s faster at all RPM ranges than Yamaha’s painted stainless-steel propellers and resists ventilation. It features a new SDS design that needs no special hardware to function. 

• Talon SS - Smooth, quiet shifting, and trolling for F70 – F115 and T50/T60 outboards on pontoon, walleye, fiberglass, and deep-V boats. They feature an updated SDS design that requires no special hardware to function.

• Aluminum - Low-cost and lightweight, it provides good overall performance for outboards 2 HP to 225 HP, and a wide variety of applications.

What are the Yamaha propeller families for family and watersport boats?

• Reliance - The Reliance family of outboard props is also great for many family boats pulling towables and boaters who participate in watersports.

• Talon Pontoon - Excellent low-speed operation, providing higher thrust and control than conventional propellers on pontoons (even heavily loaded) using T50-F115 outboards. Features an SDS design that requires no special hardware to function.

• Dual Thrust - Harnesses the power of Yamaha’s high-thrust outboards for pushing heavy loads such as sailboats and pontoons, and provides outstanding reverse thrust. Standard on T9.9 and T25, optional on T50 and T60.

What are the Yamaha propeller families for bass, bay, and flatboats?

• V MAX SHO - An ultra-high-performance ventless design and single-inch pitches allow you to fine-tune the performance of Yamaha’s four-stroke V MAX SHO.

• Pro Series - This stainless-steel series provides high performance for single-outboard boats requiring bow lift.

• Talon SS4 - Stronger hole-shot than comparable 3-blade propellers. Excellent on mid-range powered flats boats or for applications requiring high engine mounting heights. Fits F70 to VF115, T50/T60 K series (4.25″) gearcases. Standard Shift Dampener System (SDS).

What are the Yamaha propeller families for large boats?

• Saltwater Series II - Designed for larger offshore boats, it provides more extended cruising range, superior midrange fuel efficiency, and better handling in rough seas. Features a new SDS design that requires no special hardware to function.

• Saltwater Series XL - Designed for the V8 F350 four-stroke outboard, these propellers provide plenty of power-to-plane, acceleration, and top-end. The updated hub system accommodates older Yamaha F350s.

• XTO OS Propellers - With diameters from 16 to 17 1/8 inches and increased blade surface, XTO OS propellers are engineered to complement the torque potential of V8 XTO Offshore outboards on 50-foot and larger boats. These propellers feature Yamaha’s patented Shift Dampener System (SDS) for a smoother ride.

How do I service my Yamaha outboard lower unit?

Yamaha lower unit gear lube is drained by removing the lower drain screw first and then the upper plug vent to allow air in. On most models, both plugs are clearly visible on the lower unit, but on models with low water pickups, the forward pickup will need to be removed to access the drain plug. Use a properly sized screwdriver assisted by a wrench if necessary to loosen these screws which should be pretty tight. An impact driver and hammer may be needed depending on who serviced your engine last. The drain screw has a magnetic tip, so inspect the plug after removal to see if heavy deposits exist. Some fine shavings are normal, but chunks or a large quantity of metal is cause for further inspection. Have a drain pan and extra rags handy as gear lube will begin running down the skeg as soon as you remove the upper vent plug. Be sure to collect the fiber gaskets from both plugs after removal, as these are not reusable and should be discarded.

Allow several minutes with the engine tilted all the way down to fully drain the old gear oil. Like your engine oil, inspect the spent oil for evidence of water intrusion or other contamination or metal. If you have purchased one of PartsVu’s handy lower unit oil change kits you will already have new gaskets, oil, and a pump. Screw the pump into the lower drain hole and then connect it to the quart of Yamalube gear oil or HD gear oil depending on your model. Begin pumping oil into the lower unit until oil begins to flow from the vent plug at the top. Stop pumping and wait just a few clicks or minutes for all the air bubbles to work themselves out of the gearcase. After this brief pause, pump a few more pumps until clean gear oil without bubbles is flowing from the vent plug. With a fresh fiber gasket in place, install and torque the top vent plug. Unscrew your fill hose from the lower drain plug and quickly swap in the lower drain plug with a new gasket. Torque to spec and re-install the lower water pickup screen if applicable.

Should I buy used Yamaha propellers for sale from a Yamaha dealer?

Pros:

• Cost: Used propellers are typically cheaper than new ones, so you may be able to save money.

• Availability: If you're having trouble finding a specific propeller, buying used may be your best bet.

Cons:

• Condition: Used propellers may have damage or wear and tear that can affect their performance. You won't have any guarantees about their condition, so you're taking a risk.

• Compatibility: Used propellers may not be compatible with your specific outboard motor, even if they're from the same manufacturer.

Overall, it's best to approach buying used propellers with caution. Make sure you know what you're looking for and ask lots of questions about the propeller's condition and history. If you're unsure, it may be safer to invest in a new propeller instead.

What are the pros and cons of a 15 pitch vs 17 pitch prop?

Pitch refers to the distance a propeller would move through a solid substance in one revolution. The pitch affects the boat's speed, acceleration, and fuel efficiency. Here are some pros and cons of a 15 pitch vs 17 pitch prop:

15 Pitch Prop:

Pros:

• Better acceleration and hole shot (getting up to speed quickly)

• Better performance in rough water

• Good for smaller boats and lighter loads

Cons:

• Lower top speed

• Poor fuel efficiency

• May cause engine to run at higher RPMs

17 Pitch Prop:

Pros:

• Higher top speed

• Better fuel efficiency

• May cause engine to run at lower RPMs

Cons:

• Slower acceleration

• Poor performance in rough water

• Good for larger boats and heavier loads

Choosing the right pitch depends on your boating needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and fuel efficiency, a 17 pitch prop may be better. If you prioritize acceleration and performance in rough water, a 15 pitch prop may be a better choice.

What are the most common types of boat propellers?

The most common types of boat propellers include:

1. Fixed-Blade Propellers: These are the most common type of propeller and are found on most outboard motors. They have a fixed pitch and cannot be adjusted.

2. Adjustable-Blade Propellers: These propellers can be adjusted to change the pitch, allowing for better performance in different conditions.

3. Three-Blade Propellers: These propellers are the most common and are designed for general use. They provide good acceleration and speed.

4. Four-Blade Propellers: These propellers are designed for heavier boats and provide better low-speed control and fuel efficiency.

5. Stainless Steel Propellers: These propellers are more durable than aluminum propellers and provide better performance in rough water.

How do I replace propeller Yamaha outboard?

To replace the propeller on a Yamaha outboard, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the engine and remove the keys from the ignition.

2. Remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the propeller shaft using a wrench.

3. Slide the propeller off the shaft.

4. Inspect the propeller shaft for damage or wear and replace if necessary.

5. Place the new propeller onto the shaft, ensuring that the splines line up with the shaft.

6. Reinstall the castle nut and cotter pin.

7. Tighten the castle nut to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.

8. Turn on the engine and test the propeller for proper operation.

How long does it take for a Yamaha prop installation?

The time it takes to install a Yamaha propeller depends on a variety of factors, including the experience of the installer, the condition of the stock propeller shaft, and

What's the correct Yamaha prop nut size?

The correct Yamaha prop nut size will depend on the model and year of your Yamaha outboard motor. It's best to refer to your owner's manual or consult with a Yamaha dealer to determine the correct size.

How long does a new boat propeller last?

The lifespan of a new boat propeller will depend on a variety full range of factors, including the material it's made from, the conditions it's used in, and how well it's maintained. On average, a new boat propeller can last anywhere from a few years to several decades with proper care and maintenance.

What are prop plugs?

Prop plugs are used to block the water inlet on outboard motor propellers when the boat is out of the water. They are typically made of rubber or plastic and prevent marine growth and debris from entering the engine's cooling system while the boat is not in use.

What are the most common types of Yamaha hardware for outboard maintenance?

Yamaha outboards' hardware refers to the various components and accessories used in Yamaha outboard motors, including propellers, hubs, nuts, bolts, and other parts. These components are designed to work together to provide optimal performance and durability for your Yamaha outboard motor.

How do I know what Yamaha prop I have?

To identify the brand of Yamaha propeller you have, you can look for the manufacturer's part number stamped on the hub of the propeller. You can also consult your owner's manual or contact a Yamaha dealer for assistance.

Do Yamaha props come with hubs?

Yes, Yamaha props kits typically come with a hub kit that includes the necessary hardware for installation. The hub kit may include a hub, thrust washer, spacer, and cotter pin.

What size nut is on a Yamaha prop?

The size of the nut on a Yamaha propeller will depend on the model and year of your Yamaha outboard motor. It's best to refer to your owner's manual or consult with a Yamaha dealer to determine the correct size.

Will a Quicksilver prop fit a Yamaha?

It's possible that a Quicksilver propeller may fit a Yamaha outboard motor, but it's important to ensure that the propeller is compatible with your specific motor. It's best to consult with a Yamaha dealer or propeller specialist to determine the best propeller for your needs.

How do Yamaha propellers contribute to bow lift?

Yamaha propellers can contribute to bow lift in boats by generating lift forces as they rotate through the water. The design and characteristics of the propeller, with characteristics such as its shape, size, and pitch, can influence the amount of bow lift generated.

When a boat is underway, the propeller blades generate thrust by accelerating water towards the rear of the boat. As water is accelerated in one direction, an equal and opposite reaction force is generated in the opposite direction, which propels the boat forward. Additionally, the shape and orientation of the propeller blades can also create lift forces perpendicular to the direction of thrust.

Yamaha propellers are designed to optimize the performance of Yamaha outboard motors and boats, and they can be specifically engineered to generate bow lift. Bow lift is a desirable characteristic in many boats, as it helps to raise the bow of the boat, reducing drag and improving overall performance. Bow lift can also contribute to a smoother ride by helping the boat to ride over waves instead of plowing through them, resulting in a more comfortable and efficient boating experience.

Can I fix Yamaha outboard propellers if they become bent?

In general, bent boat propellers can be repaired, but it depends on the extent of the damage and the specific design of the propeller.

Yamaha outboard propellers are typically made from durable materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, which are known for their strength and resilience. If a Yamaha outboard propeller becomes bent due to impact with an object or other damage, it may be possible to repair it, depending on the severity of the bend and the location of the damage.

Minor bends or deformations in the blades of props for Yamaha outboards may be repairable using specialized propeller repair tools and techniques. Propeller repair shops or marine service centers may have the expertise and equipment to straighten bent blades, reshape them, and restore the propeller to its original performance.

However, if the damage is severe, such as a significant bend or twist in the propeller hub or blades, or if the propeller has other structural damage, it may not be repairable and it may be time for a Yamaha outboard prop replacement. Repairing Yamaha outboard props may also affect its balance and performance, so it's important to consult with a professional propeller repair technician to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action.

Does a Yamaha stainless steel prop corrode?

While stainless steel propellers are known for their corrosion resistance, it is still possible for them to corrode under certain circumstances. Stainless steel is a type of steel alloy that contains chromium, which provides excellent corrosion resistance compared to other types of steel. However, stainless steel is not completely immune to corrosion.

Corrosion can occur in Yamaha stainless steel propellers when exposed to certain environmental conditions or chemicals that can degrade the protective chromium oxide layer on the surface of the stainless steel. For example, exposure to saltwater, acidic or alkaline water, or harsh chemicals can potentially cause corrosion in Yamaha stainless steel props over time.

What is a Yamaha SDS prop?

Yamaha SDS (Shift Dampener System) prop refers to a type of propeller used in Yamaha outboard motors. It is designed to reduce the noise and vibration caused by the shifting process when changing gears. The SDS prop has a rubber sleeve between the propeller and the propeller shaft, which absorbs shock and dampens the vibrations, resulting in a smoother and quieter shift. This can help improve the overall performance and comfort of the boat. SDS props are typically used in higher horsepower Yamaha outboard motors for boats used for fishing, cruising, or recreational purposes.