Let’s Talk About Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 is designed to be a direct replacement propeller hub for select Mercury & Mariner and Mercruiser engines. Turning Point advertises this kit as a cost-effective, durable, and reliable alternative to traditional propeller hubs, boasting a lifetime warranty and enhanced protection for your lower unit. As someone who’s spent years dealing with boat maintenance, the promise of a reusable hub that could save me money and hassle after a prop strike immediately piqued my interest.
I’ve had my fair share of run-ins with submerged debris, and replacing a damaged propeller hub has always been a frustrating and expensive process. I was seeking a solution that could withstand the occasional bump and grind without requiring a complete overhaul. The Turning Point Hub Kit 701 presented itself as a possible answer to that problem.
Upon unboxing the kit, my initial impression was positive. The components felt robust and well-made. The black finish looks durable, and the included hardware appears to be of good quality. The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 looks and feels substantial.
Compared to some of the solid rubber hub systems I’ve used in the past, this kit’s design seemed more sophisticated. I considered options from Mercury Marine and Quicksilver, but the Turning Point hub’s lifetime warranty and purported reusability swayed me. I found this hub appealing as the other brands lack the comprehensive warranty and features touted by Turning Point.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit’s design seemed promising, but the real test would be how it performed on the water and whether it truly lived up to the hype of its lifetime warranty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 on my 21-foot center console boat powered by a Mercury 225hp outboard. The test location was a mix of open bay and shallow, grassy flats where I frequently encounter submerged oyster beds and other hazards. The water conditions ranged from calm to moderately choppy throughout the day.
During the initial run, I noticed a slight improvement in vibration compared to my old hub system. The engine seemed to run smoother, particularly at higher RPMs. Installation was straightforward following the included instructions.
There were no immediate issues after the first use, but I did make sure to closely monitor the hub for any signs of slippage or damage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including some accidental bumps against submerged objects, the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear. This included use in saltwater conditions.
The hub has shown no signs of slippage or performance degradation. The peace of mind knowing it’s warrantied makes all the difference, and I’ve grown more confident navigating areas I previously avoided. Maintenance has been minimal.
Compared to my previous experiences with traditional rubber hubs that often required replacement after a single hard impact, the Turning Point Hub Kit 701 has been a significant improvement. I haven’t had to remove and inspect the hub after any mishaps; it’s simply continued to perform. I find this hub performs better than previous hubs that I have used.
Breaking Down the Features of Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701
Specifications
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 is designed for select Mercury & Mariner and Mercruiser 200+hp engines with a 15-spline shaft and a 4.75″ gearcase. The kit includes a 15-tooth spline hub, designed to interface with specific Hustler and Express series propellers from Turning Point. The hub itself is constructed from glass-filled nylon over durable marine bronze splines.
The kit is black in color. The key specifications are the 15-tooth spline count and compatibility with 4.75″ gearcases; these ensure a proper fit and prevent damage to the engine or propeller. The materials used ensure corrosion resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 performs its job admirably. It effectively transfers power from the engine to the propeller. This process significantly reduces vibration and eliminates chatter.
The strength of this kit is its durability and the lifetime warranty. One potential weakness may be its specific compatibility. It requires matching with the correct engine and propeller models. The product has exceeded my expectations so far.
Design & Ergonomics
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 features a one-piece hub design. It incorporates glass-filled nylon over marine bronze splines. The weight is negligible once installed, and the materials contribute to corrosion resistance.
The design is simple, but effective, and reduces the risk of common failures seen in multi-part designs. There is virtually no learning curve involved with using this product, other than the initial installation.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 is a major selling point. The lifetime warranty is a testament to Turning Point’s confidence in their product. Minimal maintenance is required; periodic inspection for damage is recommended.
The materials used are corrosion-resistant, extending the lifespan of the hub. The ease of maintenance adds to its overall value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 itself doesn’t have many customization options. However, it is designed to be compatible with Turning Point‘s Hustler and Express series propellers. This allows users to choose a propeller that best suits their boating needs, whether it be for speed, fuel efficiency, or load-carrying capacity.
While the hub is not directly compatible with accessories from other brands, the ability to swap out different Turning Point propellers provides a degree of customization. The Hustler and Express series props offer different blade designs and pitch angles.
Pros and Cons of Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701
Pros
- Lifetime Warranty: Offers unparalleled peace of mind.
- Enhanced Lower Unit Protection: Reduces gear shock and potential engine damage.
- Re-useable Hub: Saves money and hassle after minor prop strikes.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Ensures longevity in saltwater environments.
- One-Piece Design: Eliminates common failure points seen in multi-part hub systems.
Cons
- Specific Compatibility: Requires matching with compatible engines and propellers.
- Higher Initial Cost: May be more expensive than some basic rubber hub replacements.
Who Should Buy Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701?
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 is perfect for boaters who frequently navigate waters with submerged hazards. Those who want a durable, reliable propeller hub system with a lifetime warranty will also benefit. Those who want to save money in the long run by avoiding frequent hub replacements can see the value.
This product may not be the best choice for boaters who primarily operate in open, debris-free waters. They may not need the added protection and durability. Owners of boats with engines or propellers outside the specified compatibility range will need another product.
A must-have accessory would be a set of compatible Turning Point Hustler or Express series propellers. Ensure that they are appropriate for your boat and engine setup.
Conclusion on Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 is a worthwhile investment for boaters seeking a durable, reliable, and cost-effective propeller hub system. The lifetime warranty and enhanced lower unit protection offer significant peace of mind. It could save money and hassle in the long run.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust design, and the potential for long-term savings. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their propeller hub system, especially those who boat in challenging environments.
Don’t wait until your next prop strike leaves you stranded. Invest in a Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 701 and enjoy worry-free boating knowing you have a reliable and warrantied hub protecting your engine.