This is a very complex question. It's not complex from a technical standpoint, it's complex due to the "web" of possible configurations and the reality that we cannot test them all. What engine? 340, 360, 370, 375, 400, 409? The statement posted above is our disclaimer and true that anything that changes the torsional vibration signature can affect our endorsement. If we start with the crankshaft configuration alone, there are at least four distinct configurations; the 180 Hp variety and the 200 Hp variety and either one could have torsional dampers. Now there is another one on the XP-400. There are probably a few more that I'm missing like the -340... Moving on to pistons, there is 8.5, 8.7, 9, 10 and even higher out there. I forgot about 8.9 on the IO-390. Then there is the induction system. Is it carbureted, injected, throttle body, horizontal, vertical, tuned? Exhaust? We've seen a noticeable difference with the PowerFlow so it does have an effect. What about cylinders? Ported & polished, special valves or lifters? All that before we even get to the ignition systems that are available. We've tested a few. Lightspeed, LASAR, and some others that I can't remember right now. All of these had slightly different timing curves. Then there is operation... Should we only approve propellers if tested to the most aggressive aerobatic manuevers that some may fly?
The best possible scenario is you are using an engine configuration that we've tested and can officially approve for use with our propeller models. If not, maybe we can look at our tested configurations and at lest give you some idea whether it's close and provide some guidance. It is not our intent to deter inovation or personal taste and pigeon-hole everybody, we just can't stay ahead of all the possible configurations. We would like to sell to anyone that wants a Hartzell but we would rather you operate a safe configuration. And that viewpoint doesn't even broach the subjects of durability and reliability. You may be safe but who wants to deal with service difficulties every few hundred hours? Propellers fall into the same category as wing spars in my book and I don't think anybody wants to slightly overload their wing spar at up to 450 times a second... The spar will eventually fail and only testing can predict when that will happen.
If you aren't sure, just call us and ask about your configuration. Be ready with the specifics of your configuration. We may say "yes," "no," or "we haven't tested that, but.." You are all EABs and you have the freedom to do whatever you want so please don't get frustrated for sticking to our standards and wanting to keep you safe if you don't like our answer. I recommend you at least get some information and make an informed decision on whether you want to operate with one of our props.
I'm sorry for this long explanation, hopefully it helps answer some questions. I will try to update the table that Doug has posted on this site with the latest information we have. That may help answer more of your detailed questions.
Be safe!
Les Doud
Hartzell Propeller