How to Replace a Propeller on an RC Aircraft
Flying RC (radio controlled) aircraft is a hobby that gives you the experience of flight, even though you may not be able to afford to fly a full-sized aircraft. The principles of flight apply to RC aircraft just as they do for their full-sized cousins; however, your RC plane is controlled by a radio transmitter held by you on the ground. Most RC planes are powered by a small gasoline engine or electric motor with a wooden propeller attached. After a few rough landings, the propeller will need to be replaced.
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Things You'll Need
- Philips screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Propeller
- Prop reamer or drill press
- Hobby knife
Instructions
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1
Gain access to the propeller attaching nut by removing the spinner (if equipped). Remove the spinner holding screw with a Philips screwdriver, turning it in a counterclockwise direction. Set the spinner aside.
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2
Prevent the propeller from spinning with your hand. Using an adjustable wrench, first remove the lock nut, then the attaching nut from the prop shaft. Set the nuts aside and pull the propeller from the shaft.
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3
Turn the prop shaft by hand in a clockwise direction until compression is felt. Push the new propeller onto the prop shaft so that it is in a horizontal position. This way, If the engine quits mid-flight, the propeller will revert to the horizontal position and is less likely to be damaged in a dead-stick landing. Use a prop reamer (available at hobby shops) or a drill press to enlarge the hole to fit the prop shaft if needed.
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4
Run the prop nut onto the prop shaft by hand until it is snug against the propeller. Hold the prop with one hand and tighten the nut with an adjustable wrench in a clockwise direction, using the other hand. Run the lock nut onto the prop shaft and tighten it in the same fashion.
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5
Place the spinner (if equipped) back in position over the prop and attach it by twisting in the holding screw with your Philips screwdriver in a clockwise direction.
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Tips & Warnings
If the spinner interferes with the new propeller and will not seat against the spinner back plate, trim the edges where the spinner meets the prop with a hobby knife. There should be a small gap between the spinner and the propeller blades.
If the new propeller's hole is too small to fit over the prop shaft, do not use an electric drill to enlarge the hole. If you do not drill the hole perpendicular to the prop, it could cause your prop to be off balance and cause damage to your engine.
