I am a Newbie at RC Fixed Wing. I have just built a Spad Trainer an a friend has given me an OS 46 AX Engine for it. I would like to balance the propeller for it on a balancer I use to balance Helicopter blades. I have searched the site on information about balancing props but I need more information.

Question ---- How do you make the blades balance? ...... Add weight to the lighter side or remove material from the heavier side.

ADD

oh, and I use medium CA on plastic, wood and CF props to add weight to the light side.

Thanks for the info. I have not flown a plane yet so I am trying to solve any problems that may arise before my first CRASH. LOL

Wood props I usually spray the light blade with clearcoat. Nylon/plastic props I usually sand the backside of the blade. OR paint the tip (s).

A

I have found that APC props are usually so close, you don't need to balance them. I usually sand the finish to balance wood props

I will be using plastic I think to save replacement cost. Sanding seems like a good Idea as you can balance in two dimentions.

if your new you will have nicked the prop on the ground after the first flight and all the balancing that you did will be waisted.
generally I check the balance to make sure the prop is not totally out of wack, wood props tend to be close, plastic can be all over the place.
I have APC props that are perfect,and also so out that I wouldn't run it at all, it depends on each prop individually.
for the 46 sizes 10/6 to 12/4 on a trainer,for a plastic prop sand the heavy blade on the back side.
for wood a combo, sand a little, and clear coat the sanded area as well as the light side when dry, recheck-repeat.
when you get to larger props balance becomes extremely critical not only for the engine but the airframe the wear and tear from a out of balance prop can be fatal.

DO NOT sand or carve to balance a prop. Composite props shouldn't be sanded at all. Use clear poly-u to spray on the light side of the prop until it balances. If a prop really smacks down to the heavy side, return it and get one that's more in balance.

Dr.1

when sanding wood props to balance them you do not sand the back as that is what sets the pitch