Outboards & Propellers | What you still don’t know about the “Watergrip” generation

The life of a boat that mounts an outboard motor is tied very closely to its propeller. Getting the best performance, stability, and maneuverability right is definitely through an effective propeller depending on the model. The trend that is seeing outboard engines landing even on boats that would usually have mounted an inboard is pushing manufacturers to develop and perfect these machines more and more-the propeller, which is an integral part of the outboard, certainly could not remain excluded from this process.

Suzuki and the “Watergrip” generation: more torque, power and ease of maintenance

The DF350A is Suzuki ‘s most powerful outboard and represents the state of the art as far as the Hamamatsu-based company is concerned in its marine division. Presented last year, it is the result of very extensive studies and research that included propellers. From this milestone came a revamp of all the Japanese manufacturer’s most powerful propeller models-from 150 to 300 horsepower. New blade shapes increase the torque and power capabilities of these high-performance Suzuki engines. Also important is the introduction of a new type of bushing that includes an easily interchangeable silent block, without the use of special tools. An important detail lies in having carried out the design with a design that prevents “slippage” of the propeller, even when loads are particularly large. Watergrip propellers with 16″ diameter are currently available. Watergrip propellers with 14″ and 15″ diameter, however, will be available from December 2018.

The crucial importance of the propeller in the outboard

The propeller is not just an accessory, but an integral part of the engine and as such should be chosen carefully. Propellers are not all the same, and before choosing one with a different pitch for your boat, it is always best to ask a specialized technician, remembering that each manufacturer specifically studies their engines with particular propellers.