ORIGINAL: texas ale
Any chance that the engine was damaged when the propeller got stopped by the railroad tie?
Very unlikely. Wooden props sometimes break if they hit a weed. You'll probably find that you like the somewhat flexible black nylon Master Aircrew props best while you're learning to fly. They bend rather than break on minor impacts. Since they do flex they may be less efficient than other props but your wallet will thank you. Once you get to the point the prop is not hitting the ground, or other objects, you can switch back to the stiff, efficient, props.