Propeller Coating Application: Propspeed vs PellerClean in 8 Proven Steps for a Perfect Finish
For boaters in coastal regions like Vancouver, the stakes are high. Saltwater exposure and marine growth, especially barnacles, mussels, and algae, can quickly attach to unprotected metal surfaces. These organisms create drag, reduce fuel efficiency, and over time, can cause electrolysis and pitting corrosion on bronze or stainless propellers. Even a light layer of barnacles can increase fuel consumption by more than 30% in heavy-growth areas, while a thick layer can make it nearly impossible for a prop to spin efficiently. We also mentioned this in another blog “5 Most Common Boat Problems in Vancouver’s Climate” if you would like to have a look.
That’s where modern foul-release coatings like Propspeed and PellerClean shine. By creating a slick, non-stick surface, they make it extremely difficult for marine organisms to attach — allowing water to flow smoothly over the blades and shafts. This not only boosts performance but also prevents costly damage to your underwater gear.
Recently, our team completed a full PellerClean application after removing an old Propspeed coating from a trawler boat. The results? A mirror-smooth finish, zero corrosion, and a prop that looks brand new.
Here’s how we achieved it, and how Propspeed and PellerClean compare when it comes to protecting your vessel’s most hard-working components.
1. Strip the Old Coating Cleanly
We began by using Propspeed’s Stripspeed remover, one of the most efficient products for stripping old foul-release coatings. It softens existing film layers in about 30 minutes without heavy grinding, making it ideal for preparing bronze, stainless steel, or aluminium propellers.
If you’re renewing Propspeed or PellerClean, Stripspeed gives you a perfect blank canvas for the next phase of your propeller coating application.
2. Sand and Profile the Metal Surface
After removal, we carefully sanded the surface with 80-grit abrasive paper. This ensures a consistent, slightly rough profile that helps the primer adhere strongly.
Surface preparation is critical, any residue or uneven texture can shorten coating life dramatically.
Both Propspeed and PellerClean stress the importance of surface prep, but PellerClean’s formula is a bit more forgiving if application isn’t performed under ideal humidity or timing conditions.
Here is the picture after strip speed and sanding. It is ready for Peller Clean propeller coating application!
3. Apply Two Coats of PellerClean Primer Base
Next came the PellerClean primer base — a durable, biocide-free epoxy primer that bonds tightly to metal. We applied two even coats, allowing the second to self-level for a uniform finish.
Compared to Propspeed’s etching primer, Peller Clean primer offers a slightly longer working window between coats. While forums mention that propspeed is needed to be renewed every 18 months, peller clean mentions there is at least 24 months window to reapply propeller coating application.
This flexibility makes it easier to achieve a smooth, continuous surface across large propellers and shafts.
4. Finish with Two Coats of Clear Coat
Once the primer reached tack stage, we applied two coats of PellerClean clear coat. This silicone-based foul-release film is incredibly slick to the touch and forms a hydrophobic surface that marine growth struggles to cling to.
While Propspeed pioneered this technology years ago, PellerClean has refined it, offering similar protection with easier application and no chromates or harsh solvents.
The final result was impressive: a deep golden hue and a glossy, protective finish ready for long-term performance. Here is the final product! It is ready to sail! It is a good choice for propeller coating application.
5. Long-Term Benefits
The right coating system can:
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Improve fuel efficiency by reducing drag.
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Prevent corrosion and galvanic wear.
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Extend time between haul-outs.
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Keep your running gear looking showroom-ready.
Both Propspeed and PellerClean deliver these benefits, your choice depends on budget, application preference, and local service availability.
If you would like to find more information and datasheets for these products, check links below:
We as Alesta Marine work with both of the brands but we really liked Peller Clean!