When to replace a prop?
In article 7_8tj.34233$9j6.7329@attbi_s22,
"Jay Honeck" wrote:
I will replace either my hub or my blades (Hartzell prop) when the prop
shop tells me the item can no longer be overhauled to spec.
Likely you will do it next year when the next AD comes out grounding
all Hartzell props made before 2000. Hartzell is actively lobbying the
FAA for this.
Actually, I mis-spoke. My prop is a Hartzell. What's wrong with pre-2000
props?
Today was "Day 3" of my annual. So far no big surprises (need 2 tires, one
brake rotor, the inevitable wheel pant and plastic parts repairs, etc.), but
WRT the prop, my A&P and I have decided to take a "wait and see" attitude.
The blades are within spec, the hub is not leaking, and we have had no
trouble with it. I got a quote today on a 3-blade Hartzell "Top Prop" for
"only" 9+ AMUs (they refund 1 AMU if your prop is in good condition) -- so
I'm not eager to make this purchase if it's not necessary.
Thanks for the advice, everyone!
The answer is that there is NOTHING wrong with pre-2000 Hartzell props!
Hartzell has been using pet (either corrupt, incompetemt or both)
regulators in the FAA to do their bidding in creating ADs that trash the
old propellers and create a market for their new products.
A classic case in the "comformity check" associated with the blade AD on
the 12 series props. People have had unused props on the shelf in which
the blades "failed" this test. Tell me that there is a compelling reason
for the test when virgin blades fail the test.
Dick Ward of the Twin bonanza Assn. has been round and round on this one.
--
Remove _'s from email address to talk to me.
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