One destroyer's engineer used maximum engine power to tear free the material fouling a shaft. Whether the obstruction was rope, wire or cable remains disputed. Applying the engine's stated 10,000 horsepower eventually broke it and restored the ship's ability to make 32 knots. The attempt risked severe damage to the propeller or shaft if the obstruction caught. Its success is treated as a fortunate improvisation in an emergency, rather than a dependable method of clearing fouling.
Notable Point · 34:32-35:29
Full engine power freed a fouled shaft at serious mechanical risk
A risky attempt to break shaft fouling with full engine power restored a destroyer's speed during the Durazzo retreat.