Rojan Eros Caparas

BSAMT – Z1A

What is the best way to store a wood propeller?

Propellers should be stored dry. On a flat surface, place the propeller on the rear face of the hub.
Never stand the propeller on its tip in an upright posture, as this will cause the propeller to distort
and become unusable. Avoid storing propellers for more than a few days in a hot space, such as a
house or office, as this climate can dramatically reduce the moisture content of the wood,
resulting in the propeller's shrinking and possibly cracking. The optimal atmosphere for storing a
propeller is the same as that of an airplane.
It is critical to maintaining the proper torque on the bolts. As the propeller's moisture content
varies, environmental variations might cause the propeller hub to expand or contract, affecting
the bolt tightness. Too tight and the hub will be crushed; too loose and the propeller will rub
against the drive flange, very probably ending in propeller loss and catastrophic vibration. It is
advised that bolt torque be tested in response to environmental variations such as season
changes.
Remove the propeller and use a delicate cloth dampened with soapy water to clean the hub.
Examine the propeller hub for damage caused by the drive flange or front plate. Look for cracks
and ovalization of the counterbores and bolt holes on the hub. If any cracks are visible, or
counterbores or bolt holes have ovalized by more than 1 mm, the propeller should not be
returned to service until Hercules Propellers advises otherwise. In any event, if ovalization has
happened, the propeller bolts must be changed. Check for fretting on the propeller hub, propeller
drive flange, and spinner bulkheads (if applicable). If fretting is visible, thoroughly clean the
linked components and check for material loss. If there is a question regarding the propeller's
serviceability, contact Hercules Propellers for guidance before resuming service. Blades: Clean
the blades well with soapy water to remove any bugs. When cleaning the propeller blades, avoid
using an abrasive scouring pad since this will permanently ruin the surface finish. Check for
cracks, scratches, and dents on the blades. If any cracks, scratches, or dents deeper than 1 mm are
visible, contact Hercules Propellers for advice before resuming service. Secure the Hercuthane
leading-edge material by inspecting it for removal from the propeller blade. Contact Hercules
Propellers for guidance before resuming service if there is any evidence of detachment. If any
section of the propeller is missing paint or varnish and bare wood is visible, it is critical to re-
protect the wood using oil-based paint or polyurethane varnish. Alternatively, you may return the
propeller to Hercules Propellers for overhaul and refinishing.