Configure Propellers

Why Propeller Configuration Matters

Propeller tracking enables:

• Overhaul Planning - Most props require overhaul every 5-6 years or 2000 hours
• AD Compliance - Many propellers have recurring Airworthiness Directives
• Maintenance Scheduling - Track inspections and service intervals
• Resale Documentation - Accurate times are essential for valuation

Adding a Propeller

Propellers are typically added during the aircraft setup wizard (Step 3). To add one to an existing aircraft:

1. Go to Airframes and select your aircraft
2. Tap the gear icon to open Aircraft Setup
3. In the Propellers section, tap Add Propeller
4. Enter the propeller details
5. Tap Save

Propeller Information Fields

Propeller Details

Basic identification information:

• Manufacturer - Prop maker (e.g., McCauley, Hartzell, MT, Sensenich)
• Model - Specific model designation
• Serial Number - Unique identifier from the hub or data plate
• Date of Manufacture - When the propeller was built
• Number of Blades - 2, 3, 4, etc.
• Propeller Type - Fixed Pitch, Constant Speed, Ground Adjustable

Time Tracking

Hours for maintenance and overhaul scheduling:

• Current Tach Time - Total hours on the propeller (updates when you log flights)

Installation Details

• Date of Installation - When installed on this airframe
• Airframe Time at Installation - Airframe hours when propeller was installed

Overhaul History

Record overhaul and inspection information:

• Tach Time at Major Overhaul - Propeller hours when overhauled
• Date of Major Overhaul - When the overhaul occurred

Propeller Types Explained

Fixed Pitch

Common on training aircraft (Cessna 150, 152, basic 172):

• No moving parts
• Simpler maintenance requirements
• May not require calendar-based overhauls

Constant Speed

Found on high-performance singles and twins:

• Uses a governor to maintain selected RPM
• Typically requires overhaul every 5-6 years or 2000 hours
• More ADs and service bulletins
• Requires governor maintenance as well

Ground Adjustable

Common on experimental and some ultralights:

• Pitch can be adjusted on the ground
• Maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer

Multi-Engine Propellers

For multi-engine aircraft with propellers:

• Each propeller is configured separately
• Track times independently for each prop
• Use notes to identify left vs right if not obvious from model numbers

Editing an Existing Propeller

1. Go to Aircraft Setup for your aircraft
2. In the Propellers section, tap the propeller you want to edit
3. Expand any section by tapping on it
4. Make your changes
5. Tap Done within each section, then Save at the top

Adding Notes

Use the Notes section to record:

• Overhaul shop and contact information
• STC modifications (composite blades, de-ice boots, etc.)
• Service bulletins complied with
• Known issues or strike history
• Governor serial number and service history

Retiring a Propeller

When a propeller is removed from service permanently:

1. Open the Propeller Editor
2. Scroll to the bottom
3. Tap Retire Propeller (red button)
4. Confirm the retirement

Propeller Data Sources

Where to find accurate propeller information:

• Hub Data Plate - Manufacturer, model, serial number
• Propeller Logbook - Times and overhaul history
• Overhaul Records - Yellow tag with detailed work performed
• Type Certificate Data Sheet - Approved models for your aircraft
• Manufacturer Service Bulletins - Recommended inspections and intervals