Prop reamer for BME 44
 

How do you enlarge the hole on a prop for the BME 44 engine. The shaft has a sleeve where the prop will go. The reamer that I have could only enlarge it to clear the shaft but not the sleeve.
What do you guys use?
I measured the sleeve and it's about 7/16 (0.44 in)

Prop reamer for BME 44
 

I use a 7/16 reamer from my machine shop! Or use a 7/16 drill bit. Good luck.

Hall

Prop reamer for BME 44
 

Thanks for the reply. Where can you buy a 7/16 reamer? I'm sure this is a common procedure for new props used on gas engine :confused: . Is there a specific tool designed for this? I'm worried about using a drill bit because it may split the wood.

Prop reamer for BME 44
 

Any good hardware store should have a reamer that size or on-line at http://www.use-enco.com . If you don't have a drill bit set, you will also need a 27/64 drill bit to provide the starting hole for the reamer as it is not tapered. I don't think you'll split the wood if you work your way up to the final size in several steps with different drill bits. Double check the 7/16 but it sounds right - I did it for a friend who has a BME.

BME prop
 

Here is what I did...found the size bit that just fits throught the prop I want to drill...chuck the drill bit, clamp the prop in the vise, run the drill down into the prop to center the prop and clamp down the vise,,,,then put the 7/16 drill in the chuck and drill thru...check the balance on the prop and your done..wheewww!!

Ron

prop shaft enlargement
 

I agree with gilcon and flatspin. clamp it in a press or vise and use a block of wood under the prop to help prevent the drill bit from splintering the wood as the bit exits. useing a drill press helps 100%. 7/16 is the same size as my BME61, It sure pays to take your time here rather than spending alot of time balancing.
Speaking of balancing, How does everyone else balance theirs?
I dip the light end into a jar of colored paint.(after lightly sanding to help paint adhersion.) let dry somewhat,recheck for balance. Adds to safety also.

Prop balancing
 

Thanks for all the advice.
The bottom line then is a drill press with clamps.
As far as balncing, I balance my prop by spraying clear lacquer on the light end. I believe I got this idea from Don's Hobbies.
Works great and more discreet than sanding.

Prop reamer for BME 44
 

The center,clamp and drill press routine works OK,but make sure the clamp is firm and ease the bit into the wood.....A slip and you are into bushing to save the prop,or at worst you have an expensive paint stirrer.
There are ridged hand reamers in all the common metric and english sizes at your LHS or mail order place which do the job well.Fox for example makes a good one.....
I sand all the factory finishes and logos off new props,then spray with clear acrylic with extra coats on the light end until balance is achieved.