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Old 02-04-2004 | 09:50 AM
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gus
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From: Toronto, ON, CANADA
Default RE: prop question

ORIGINAL: turtle_sc

OK, this might be a silly question, but... is there any specific way to bolt props on? Is there a certain way to align it with the compression etc..? I have a saito 45 and after running it for a few minutes, my engine mount bolts were coming loose. As a side note, how would you go about replacing blind nuts in the firewall if you really cant get to them with out taking half the plane apart?? Thanks,

Mike
Not a silly question ....

why do you want to replace the blind nuts?

Use the blue lock-tite on the engine mount bolts.

Most people align their prop so that it is horizontal as the engine compression starts. When the engine "dead-sticks", the airflow will "windmill" the prop untill the engine starts compressing, at which point, the prop will be horizontal, which lessens any chance for prop damage in the event of a hard dead-stick landing.

Some people believe that the prop can be used to help "balance" the engine ... but there is a lot of controversy about that.

Regardless, the prop should be VERY tightly attached. Get a regular spanner/wrench that fits your prop-nut. Use one habd to hold the prop, and the other to hold the wrench. Tighten the nut until you think that the prop is going to cut your other hand. Then tighten a bit more.

gus