Propeller Pulling & Re-Hubbing Service
High RPM.
Zero Speed.
If your engine roars but the boat barely moves, you've likely "spun a hub." We extract seized propellers and replace the internal safety hub to get you back on plane.
The "Spun Hub"
Propellers have a rubber or plastic "fuse" (the hub) designed to break if you hit a rock. Over time, heat causes this to slip, disconnecting the engine from the blades.
Hydraulic Extraction
Saltwater seizes propellers to shafts. If you can't get it off, don't use a hammer (you'll bend the shaft). We use specialized 5-ton hydraulic pullers to safely remove stuck props.
Re-Hub vs. Replace
A new stainless prop costs $600+. A re-hub kit costs $50-$100. We simply press out the old hub and insert a new one, restoring the prop to like-new condition.
Extraction Protocol.
Safely removing the seized hardware.
Pull
We remove the cotter pin and castle nut, then attach our hydraulic puller to the propeller hub to break the corrosion bond.
Inspect
We inspect the prop shaft splines for twists or wear, and check the fishing line seal for damage (a common cause of lower unit leaks).
Press/Swap
For rubber hubs, we send it to the machine shop for pressing. For Flo-Torq hubs, we simply hammer out the plastic insert and install the new kit.
Torque
We apply marine grease to the splines (to prevent future seizing) and torque the prop nut to factory spec (usually 55-100 ft-lbs).
Back on Plane.
Restoring the connection between power and water.
Hub Technologies.
We service both traditional and modern hub systems.
Common Questions
Why did it spin?
Impact is the #1 cause (hitting bottom). However, old age also causes the rubber to dry rot and slip. If your boat is 10+ years old, hubs can fail spontaneously.
Can I drive it home?
Only at idle speed. As soon as you apply throttle, the hub will slip, and you will lose propulsion. Trying to force it can melt the hub and damage the prop shaft.