Composite propellers

[Steve Smith]

It's time for prop overhaul. I'm considering purchasing a new three-bladed prop. Any comments on composite versus aluminum?

[N3322G]

There have been some discussion on this - you might ry the search box in the upper right.

They do make the aircraft slower.

[Steve Smith]

Pat - I did try the search feature but found nothing on composite propellers. MT says their product is great and that it even adds a small percentage to cruise speed -- unlike the metal 3-bladed props. The composite is roughly $2000 more than the metal version. In addition, they tout better runway performance, better climb, less vibration and thus less wear and tear on the engine and components. How much of that is marketing vs fact? The composite is lighter, and my C model has enough nose weight as it is. Their website does have a 250 with one of their props but I can't see the N number. Tough decision whether or not to go with the standard metal or go higher tech (with alleged increased performance).
Thanks -- Steve

[N3322G]

Steve,

I know I posted on this recently and couldn't find it. Here is a link to another discussion for a Twin. You can read but if you want to respond, you have to register - it is free but you get ads.
http://forums.delphiforums.com/comanche ... msg=2174.1

[Steve Smith]

Pat - Thanks for the link to the twin discussion. I will talk again with the MT people and see what data they might have to share reference their prop on single Comanches. I also want to ask what about prop blade diameter and effects on tip speed and ground clearance. And also the question of having to send the prop to Germany for repair -- I don't think that is the case anymore, but will find out.

Steve

[Ben Ayalon]

Steve

Few years ago there was a guy, I forgot his name, who lived in New Orleans and joined forces with MT and certified a prop for the 400. He might also be able to share information with you.

[N3322G]

The gentleman is Charlie Horton

[Charles Schefer]

I'm not saying this applies to the Comanches or MT props per-se but.... I deal with Cirrus aircraft since I run them Part 135 for "air taxi". The folks at Continental tell me they've been having engine problems when the Cirrus owners swap out metal props for composite.

I don't think it's figured out exactly but the rep told me something about the lighter prop and less inertia of the prop in relation to the way the engine was balanced. You'd have to ask them - I don't have any Cirruses ("Cirri?") with composite props so I didn't dig too deep. My point is just that "newer" and "more advanced" is not always better. In fact I'd say that applies to our Comanches. I think few planes made since the PA-24/30/39 line are as good.

- Charles

[N3322G]

Charles - thanks for sharing. Sure can see the point there but only time would tell ... it is why I stayed with new Lyc cylinders when O/Hing the engines. I knew they had done well by me, and my Mother before me, for now 45 years.

[Clarence Beintema]

I have an MT propeller on my 400 using Charlie Horton's STC. It's a great prop and the only fully legal STC for the 400, 38 pounds lighter and no ADs.

Clarence