GWS Props

[Davethebluessinger]

Hi folks,
Thought I'd just post this little tip for those of you, like me who use GWS props on smaller aircraft.
I've started using a GWS 6 x 3 on my mini swift recently (Park 250 motor) and I've noticed that if I use a prop saver (O ring type) that after a few days the prop starts to deflect (even when stationary) because of the tension being applied by the O ring, small white "stress marks" appear in the plastic. You can't put too large (slack) an O ring on there because you need that tension to hold the prop snug and centred.

To help prevent this put a couple of very small blobs of hot melt glue right at the root of the blades where they join the hub of the prop. You need to make the blobs as uniform as possible so as to avoid imbalance in the prop but I've found that you don't have to be utra precise - "close enough" will do as the glue is so close to the centre point of the prop. If the prop does vibrate add a dot more glue to one side or the other until it's balanced again.
This additional "shoulder" of hot melt also adds extra strength and prevents too much deflection when the prop comes under load.

You don't have to do this with a brand new prop (but I'd recommend it). You can do this to old props, the heat of the hot melt normalises the plastic where its stressed and extends the life of the prop.

Hope this is of use!

Dave

[gazza2007au]

sounds like your using the incorrect bands prop savers come with all different sizes of bands u need to find a good match to suit your prop saver and prop as some props have different thickness hubs so if u are stressing the prop the band is to tight

[CHELLIE]

I use automotive type o rings, i like the o rings that are used for auto air conditioning, i think they are made from silicon, they are green in color, soft and dont crack like the rubber ones do, also i think the cold climate where your at has a lot to do with the rubber o ring getting hard and brittle and wearing a spot on the prop. just my 2 cents worth, Take care and have fun, Chellie

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[Paul Cook]

I use gws props on my park flyers. I do not experioence the problem. I have quit using O-rings. I buy latex sursgical tubing, similar to what I have used for high-starts. I cut 1/8 inch lengths, more or less depending on amount of tension I want. I find it easier to put on than o-rings. I get the tubing at Lowes. Less expensive than 0-rings also.
Paul