Removing Barnacles from Stainless Steel Props

Skipper November 7, 2008 Ask The Skipper

Bob asked:

Will your Algex work on stainless steel props? I have 4 propellers and I am looking for a better way to get the barnacles off.

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks. Click on the hyperlink to get more information about the selected product.

Algex works well on stainless steel props. Unlike other bottom cleaners, Algex will not darken or stain the metal but will make it bright and shiny. It also works on bronze, aluminum and most composite props. Barnacles are tough to remove, so you will require some patience, but its easier and less damaging than scraping and sanding.

I recommend spraying them with Algex and then wrapping the prop in a plastic bag to prevent evaporation while the chemical does its work. Let them sit in the plastic for 30 to 60 minutes. It will soften the barnacle shells so that you can knock them off with a plastic or wooden scraper. Once the shell are off, repeat the process to get the adhesive rings off. Depending on how severe the growth is, you might have to repeat this process several times.

After the props are cleaned of marine growth, you can polish them with Kwik Shine. It’s an easy to use, spray and wipe, product. If you have access to your props during the season, i.e.; you have a trailered boat, or you rack store it, or you have stern drives and can lift the props clear of the water, you can use it for regular maintenance. I recommend doing this after each time you use your boat. It only takes a minute.

Kwik Shine has Salt Busters which reacts with the salt and converts it into a polish. it will effectively remove the salt from your props and make the surface less receptive to the attachment of barnacles and other marine growth. It will also keep your props looking shiny and new and operating at their optimum performance level. This will save fuel, give your boat better performance and forever eliminate the barnacle problem.

You can find more information about these and other boat care products at www.auroramarine.com

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar