You think maybe it’s time for some new blades??
If you’ve got old, damaged blades on your drift boat oars, it’s time to change them out since winter steelhead season is now kicking into high gear. Don’t put it off! It’s quick and easy and will greatly improve your boat’s performance (and safety). Here’s how:
First, use a blade to break the seal at the joint where the shaft and blade meet.
Next, remove the screw that locks the blade into the shaft.
Now, wedge the old blade somewhere solid so you can twist it off.
Insert the new blade, hit the hole with some waterproof caulk and replace the screw.
Let the goop set overnight and BINGO…you’re done! Now, wasn’t that easy??
RH says
JD, what brand are your shafts in this post?
JD says
RH, oh, geez…that was so long ago you are testing my memory! I’m gonna say Sawyers…
RH says
Question on the DyneLite oar blades, in your post here it looks like you have a single set screw that attaches the blades to the oar (Looks identical to my set up). When I look at pictures of the DyneLite blades, it looks like the hole in the blade itself is quite large. How does the set screw hold the blade in, do you have to place a piece of wood inside the shaft of the oar blade? Or is the image just deceiving to look at? I am in the market to buy some new blades, but want to make sure I get ones that will attach to my oars!
JD says
RH…just one set screw but the best bet would be just to call the blade company you are looking at and ask them about shaft compatibility…just to be sure!
Lee says
JD……….I HAVE A 16′ WIDE BOTTOM. I HAVE 9′ WOODEN OARS AND I AM CONSIDERING PURCHASING NEW OARS. WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT 10′ OARS ON A BOAT THAT SIZE, WILL THEY GIVE MORE OARING POWER OR WILL THEY BE TOO LONG?
JD says
Hey Lee, check out the front page…I turned your question into an “Ask JD.” Thanks for the email!