View Full Version : Question for Evinrude 3.3L V6 Owners
catfishkiller
04-19-2004, 10:03 AM
Plastic Propeller Weed Ring...
It is located just in front of your propeller, attached to the inside perimeter of the housing.
Have any other owners incurred melting of this ring, thereby causing it to need replacement? Is it important enough to replace, or can you continuously run without it?
What would happen if you leave it out?
catfish
"the other fish"
mr.whiskerskiller:
You are obviously running one of the small hub props like the Bass Renegade. You need the weed rind for those otherwise you will get excessive ventilation/cavitation on your prop (from exhaust gases) which will hinder holeshot.
Yes, the 'clips' that hold that plastic weed ring in the lower unit will 'melt' over time due to the heat of the exhaust. I had a 2000 model 200 hp Ficht and went through one weed ring. I 'solved' the 'problem' by (1) using an Offshore Renegade as my preferred prop. It has the larger hub so the weed ring is not needed. Besides, it performed better. I also modified my lower unit "the Rowdy way". Long story, but you measure back 4" from the trailing edge of the lower unit and drill two holes, one on each side of the skeg (about an inch away from the skeg) and use the dril to create a "scoop". This will inject some water into the exhaust cooling it to prevent weed ring 'melt'. It also helps protect your hub as well.
Shoot me an email or message and I'll give you more details or search http://www.boatsetup.com forums (Evinrude) and you might find the "Rowdy way" archived.
TJ