Paint is better...and grass to rebalance everything after you get done mowing the runway.

Don't mess with sanding the props ...especially wood props.

I generally just sand the leading edge of Master Airscrew props to get rid of the molding seam...that's it.
After a couple of nose over...that's about all the time and work I'll do to props.lol

Wrap soft foam (somthing like your mouse pad or softer) around your fuel tank.

Also re inspect all of the screws for the engine mount. Use BLUE loctite (so you can remove the screws later) or
use NYLOCK type nuts.

Put foam (such as seal strips for windows or doors) either on the wing or the fuelage for the wing's saddle.