[KNicholas2]

I had to remove the prop on my RV9. When I put it back on, do I need to use new prop bolts or can I ( safely) use the old bolts?

Thanks.

Kim Nicholas
Auburn, Wa

 

[Geico266]

Welcome to VAF.

The bolts can safely be reused.

 

[Mel]

Also if the prop is wood, check the bolts for "stretching" at the base of the threads.

 

[RV7AJeremy]

?

Also if the prop is wood, check the bolts for "stretching" at the base of the threads.

Mel, can you explain further? What causes this and what does it look like?

Thanks!

 

[Vlad]

Also if the prop is wood, check the bolts for "stretching" at the base of the threads.

Yes Mel please tell how to check them. I have 730 hours and retourqued them 5 times.

 

[Mel]

What can happen is; If the prop is torqued when the humidity is dry and later the humidity increases, a wood prop will swell somewhat. This can, and has, caused the prop bolts to stretch and in extreme cases break.

It is pretty obvious when the bolts stretch. You can see it at the base of the threaded portion of the bolt.

I brought this up at an EAA presentation once and one of the guys went home and checked the prop bolts on his Hiper-Bype. He found that they were all stretched and one was actually broken.

I just found a picture of a stretched prop bolt that I have.
I don't do pictures here but if someone will give me an email address, I'll send it to you and you can post it.

 

[Vlad]

Email address in the profile

Mel please send the pic to [email protected] I will post it.

 

[Mel]

Mel please send the pic to [email protected] I will post it.

Sent!!!!!!

 

[Vlad]

Wow that's quite a stretch!

 

[Mel]

Yes, this is an extreme situation, but you get the picture of what to look for.