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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.

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ADD

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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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.

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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

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