Hello,

I am a beginner flyer with an Global RCM 40 Trainer with an OS 46FX. After reading all the threads on different props for this engine, yesterday I changed my Master Airscrew plastic 11X6 prop for a Tornado plastic 12X4 prop to see how it would fly. My LHS didn't have a MA or APC brand 12X4.

My plane flew noticably slower with the 12X4 than with the 11X6. For example, on final approach, I had to maintain one or two clicks of throttle with the 12X4 where with the 11X6, I would have already pulled back to idle. Pulling all the way back to idle with the 12X4 did indeed have a breaking effect. Pretty cool if you ask me! My plane also seemed to climb better with the 12X4 than with the 11X6. The top end speed is slower with the 12X4 than with the 11X6, which is just fine with me at this point in my flying. I felt that the 12X4 gave me better low speed control over the 11X6, especially on landings, which I liked. Finally, on the ground and in the air, the RPM range seemed fine with the 12X4, although this is based on my limited experience and without a tach.

In summary, it would seem to me that a beginner flying a trainer with an OS 46 FX, and probably other engines as well, might benefit from a relatively larger prop with a smaller pitch. Thoughts?

Thanks for all the posts on this subject. It has been fascinating and I never would have tried this prop had it not been for the posts.

Travis