RCU Forums - View Single Post - props, reamers, shaft diameter, spinners?
Old 03-13-2003 | 01:18 AM
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mikenlapaz
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From: La Paz BCS, MEXICO
Default props, reamers, shaft diameter, spinners?

Now have 12 new props, all 16 & 18" with factory bores from .25" to .310" front end holes. The aft ends on come are .362" tapering to .30" at front.
The specs available on these props all mentioned that they could be reamed out (some stated to .375". I am now the owner of a 'name brand' prop reamer.
All of the props have a hub thickness greater than the length of the reamer.
What is the proper method of using this 'tool'? A) just keep going till the right tip diameter comes out the front of prop? or B) remove and insert from opposite side?

Are reamers meant to serve a regular purpose on your props or is it like an EMERGENCY use when you break one at the field? I ran dial calipers over this new unit with the following results: 3/16" .1875 tool cut edges .195 +.0075"; 1/4" .25 tool cut edges .259 +.009"; 5/16" .3125 tool cut edges .316" +.0035; 3/8 .375" tool cut edges .364 -.0011



What type of fit are we looking for? a) a little play, b) snug slip fit, or c) lets apply a little more pressure and push that hummer onto the shaft?

Are the prop shafts on production RC motors normally a true dimension. like 5/16" shaft equalling .3125"? I'm looking at having adapter shafts made locally and can specify dimensions.

After inspecting the props and reading the install warnings on having proper bearing surfaces to assure safe operation, I was glad I opted for the LARGE 3" GP spinners. Wrong!! The raised 'knerled- grip' area is 1.36" diameter which gives it only a limited contact surface, less than what the prop manuf. say they want for safety. 16" and larger dimeter props won't even fit inside much less fit thru the side openings.

Support you LHS. Tower has a nice site and my experience with them was good. I would have preferred to have had the 'hands-on, let's see how this is going to fit' experience.

A possible alternative to machined prop washers:
3M Abrasives Sandpaper - Drywall Sanding Sheets
Has anyone tried them? They are availble in a variety of grits (coarseness)


mikenlapaz '1000 miles to the LHS'