Let’s Talk About Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, I’ve seen my fair share of equipment come and go. When it comes to boat propellers, the name of the game is reliability and performance, especially when you’re far from shore. That’s why the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 caught my eye – promising a robust and adaptable solution for engine protection.
Years of boating have taught me that a damaged propeller hub can ruin a trip. My own near-disaster involving a submerged log and a sheared prop hub pushed me to seek a more durable and reliable hub system, leading me to the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the components. The black finish gives it a professional look. The materials felt substantial, promising a long service life. I’ve used other hub kits in the past, including the Solas Amita and the Quicksilver Flo-Torq II, but the Turning Point system seemed to offer a more comprehensive approach with its lifetime warranty hub.
My initial excitement was mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism, as claims of “lifetime warranty” often come with fine print. I was eager to test if the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 could genuinely live up to the hype. It’s designed for specific Honda and Tohatsu engines. This is crucial, as compatibility is non-negotiable for marine applications.
Real-World Testing: Putting Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 was during a week-long fishing trip in the Florida Keys. I installed it on my Tohatsu 250hp outboard. The waters around the Keys are notorious for hidden sandbars and the occasional stray crab trap.
The kit performed admirably in both calm and choppy conditions. Shifting was smooth. There was no noticeable vibration or chatter, which I had experienced with previous hub systems. I was particularly impressed with how the hub absorbed the shock when I accidentally bumped a shallow sandbar.
Installation was straightforward. I needed no special tools beyond what I already had in my marine toolkit. There were no issues or surprises. The engine ran smoothly throughout the entire trip, giving me confidence in the hub’s ability to protect my lower unit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 has continued to perform exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear or tear. The hub still looks and feels as solid as the day I installed it.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with rubber hub systems that would degrade over time, this has been a significant improvement.
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 has far surpassed my expectations in terms of durability and reliability. I’ve run my boat through various conditions, from calm lakes to choppy coastal waters, and the hub has consistently delivered smooth and dependable performance. It provides peace of mind knowing my engine is well-protected.
Breaking Down the Features of Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708
Specifications
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is specifically designed to replace your propeller housing, offering enhanced lower unit protection. It features a 15-Tooth Spline Hub, making it compatible with Hustler and Express Series Propellers. This is designed for select Honda and Tohatsu 200+hp 15-spline shaft engines with a 4.75″ gearcase.
Turning Point stands out as the only company offering MasterGuard Installation kits and prop housings for a wide range of engines. These range from 6-300+hp engines. This kit comes with a Lifetime Warranty Hub. The hub allows boaters to save up to 38% when buying a replacement propeller housing.
The MasterGuard hubs are designed to be reusable after a prop strike. Even if damaged beyond reuse, they are warranted even if the prop is destroyed. The hubs are engineered to withstand normal wear and tear. It eliminates the risk of spinning or failure under normal operational use.
Turning Point’s unique patented one-piece hub features glass-filled nylon over durable marine bronze splines. This design eliminates failures commonly seen in multi-part “sleeve and spline” designs. It also gets rid of pressed-in rubber hub systems. The kit is black in color.
Performance & Functionality
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 excels in its primary function: protecting the lower unit of your engine. Its design effectively reduces gear shock. This prevents engine and drive damage. The hub eliminates propeller vibration and chatter, providing a smoother and more enjoyable boating experience.
The lifetime warranty is a testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability. The MasterGuard Hub System is robust and reliable. It stands up to the rigors of marine environments.
There are no significant weaknesses. The kit meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers consistent and dependable performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is well-designed and built to last. The materials used are corrosion-resistant, featuring brass splines that can withstand harsh marine environments. While functionality is paramount, the sleek black finish adds a touch of professionalism to your setup.
The kit is user-friendly and requires no specialized knowledge to install. The one-piece hub design simplifies the process. This makes it easy for boaters of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to its corrosion-resistant materials, the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is built for longevity. Regular maintenance is minimal, usually just requiring a quick rinse with fresh water.
The Lifetime Warranty is a clear indication of the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability. With proper care, this hub kit should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is designed to be compatible with Hustler and Express Series Propellers. These offer boaters a range of options to fine-tune their boat’s performance. The kit is intended as a direct replacement for your existing hub system. There are no additional accessories included in the kit itself.
The 15-Tooth Spline Hub is specifically designed for select Honda and Tohatsu engines with a 4.75″ gearcase. It is crucial to verify compatibility before purchasing. This ensures the kit integrates seamlessly with your existing setup.
Pros and Cons of Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708
Pros
- Lifetime Warranty: Never worry about buying another hub kit system again.
- Enhanced Lower Unit Protection: Reduces gear shock and engine/drive damage.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Brass splines ensure longevity in marine environments.
- Reusable Hub Design: Save money by reusing the hub after minor prop strikes.
- Eliminates Vibration: Experience a smoother and more comfortable boating experience.
Cons
- Limited Engine Compatibility: Only compatible with select Honda and Tohatsu engines.
- Higher Initial Cost: Slightly more expensive than some other hub kits, but the lifetime warranty justifies the price.
Who Should Buy Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708?
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is perfect for boaters who own select Honda or Tohatsu engines and want a reliable, long-lasting hub system. It’s also excellent for anglers and recreational boaters. They appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a lifetime warranty and enhanced lower unit protection. It is also a great choice for those who frequently boat in areas with shallow waters or submerged obstacles.
This product may not be ideal for boaters who own engines from other manufacturers, as the kit is specifically designed for select Honda and Tohatsu models. It’s also overkill for boaters who only occasionally use their boat in calm, open waters.
A must-have accessory for the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is a high-quality propeller that is compatible with the hub system. Regular inspection of the propeller and hub is also recommended.
Conclusion on Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708
The Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 is a worthwhile investment for boaters seeking a reliable and durable hub system for their select Honda or Tohatsu engines. The lifetime warranty and enhanced lower unit protection provide exceptional value and peace of mind.
While the initial cost may be slightly higher than other options, the long-term savings and benefits make it a justified purchase. I would personally recommend the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 to any boater looking to upgrade their hub system and protect their engine.
Don’t wait until a prop strike leaves you stranded. Invest in the Turning Point Propellers Hub Kit 708 today and enjoy worry-free boating for years to come!