How to Protect Boat Props: Coatings, Corrosion & Why Bottom Paint Is Bad

Skipper Large Powerboat Course - https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/skipper-large-powerboat?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=jeBCCli7Q8I New England Propeller - https://neprop.com Do NOT use bottom paint on your propeller. Most bottom paints contain metals that react with prop metals and accelerate corrosion/electrolysis. In this practical guide, we explain what to use (and what to avoid), how marina electrical currents vs mooring/trailering affect corrosion risk, and why your zincs must stay bare (no coating on the zincs or on the shaft where they clamp). What you’ll learn - Why bottom paint is wrong for props: metal-on-metal reactions → corrosion - Coatings vs nothing: when growth pressure is high, prop-specific coatings (e.g., PropSpeed and similar) can help—results vary by harbor and maintenance - Electrolysis basics: marina currents increase risk; mooring/trailering reduce exposure - Zincs matter: never coat anodes or the metal-to-metal contact area on the shaft - Cost reality: coatings can be pricey; some boaters re-coat and still haul quickly if growth returns 00:00 - Don’t Use Bottom Paint 00:12 - Why Props Corrode 00:43 - Don’t Coat Your Zincs 00:55 - Should You Coat a Prop? 01:21 - Prop Speed vs Bottom Paint 01:41 - Costly Re-Coating Problem #powerboat #propeller #boating