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How to Balance Folding Props

Balancing the props of your small engine aircraft can be invaluable in saving the life of your motor. Out-of-balance props cause serious strain and wear to the engine's bearings and inner components. When considering whether to balance props, it's important to note the type of material the props are constructed out of, as sometimes it's more cost effective to purchase new ones than take the time to make the adjustments. You can balance your folding wood props yourself with a simple process that allows you to grind away the excess weight.

Things You'll Need

Prop balancer
180-grit sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Unscrew the balancing cones from the prop balancer. Slide the folding prop over the metal rod.
- 2
  Connect the propeller to the prop balancer by inserting it in between the balancer's cones. Screw the balancing cones to each side of the prop with the pointed ends facing inward.
- 3
  Screw the cones ̶0;hand tight̶1; but not too tightly.
- 4
  Hold the pointed ends of the rod and allow the blades to rotate. Look for the heavier blade to sink to the bottom.
- 5
  Sand the surface of the heavier blade lightly with 180-grit sandpaper.
- 6
  Take away small amounts of the wood blade measuring your work in exacting intervals repeating Steps 1 - 4. Neither blade will drift to the bottom when in balance.

Aviation