Prop replace or repair

[Woody]

question to the technical boys?
The aerrie we are currently flying has had the same prop on since purchace 2 blade woody.We were "told" to replace prop due to vibration.
To recon the prop is 50% cheaper but still costly than a new woody.I see some 503 have the 3-blade warps on.
My question is this?
1)Is it better to stick to 2 blade woody. "with b-box"
2)Go 3-blade warp prop?
3)Can old prop be rebalanced and is it worth it?

If we need to spend money,we'd like to do it wisely.
thanx
Woody

[DarkHelmet]

I understand woody's have better thrust but are more unbalanced. Composites run smoother.

Each have their pro's and con's

I trained on a Safari 582 with a 2 blade Piet de Necker prop, I think it had more oomph than my smooth 3 blade warp-drive.

But be CAREFUL, I had a gnarly vibration every 2400 RPM ( harmonic caused by the combination of a 4:1 gear ratio, 3 blade prop, and two stroke/2cylinder motor)

So changing to a 3 blade composite could cause you more heartache if your combination is odd.

I replaced my 4:1 with a 3.47:1 and Piet de N tuned the prop for me - she is a beauty now! (PS any one want a 4:1 gear for a 582?)

[Duck Rogers]

1)Is it better to stick to 2 blade woody. "with b-box"
2)Go 3-blade warp prop?
3)Can old prop be rebalanced and is it worth it?

2-blade wood for sure....
Old prop can be re-balanced for next-to-nothing without any problems. Done it many times :D and completely refurbished for a little more...

DarkHelmet posted you some good advice on this one.. :D

Duck Rogers

[Woody]

THANX FOR THAT D.H AND DR
Also had some feedback on "keeping the woody" like my name i love wood.Some say you can do this balancing at home, if so can you assist through pm or give a few contacts in my area. Wood like to learn the finer detail on this issue
thanx
WOODY
'

[Duck Rogers]

Sorry, can't help you with any contact persons in your area.
Just phone Pieter de Necker on 011 793-5235. He will refurbish and re-balance at the same time.
If you're monetary challenged (an "armgat" like me) phone Johan Maritz on 0828223179. He can balance it for you. Stays in Alberton, I think, but works out at Baragwanath airfield.

Duck Rogers

[Aerosan]

Hi Woody

I have a 2 blade Piet prop and a 3blade warp and I can tell you first hand that it just depens what you want. If I were you, I wood contact Piet as Duck sugested and get your wood redone. The Warp is smooth and quiet BUT there is a definate power LOSS.
My 2c worth

San

[Sad-Ham]

Had a wooden Geo Killey prop on my old windlass which I took to Piet de N. He rebalanced and refurbished it including new stainless leading edges for next to nothing. Prop was like new again when I got it back. Would recomend his services anytime.

[Woody]

thanks all for the advice woody uhhh the prop will stay in commission