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How to Choose an RC Airplane Propeller

Choosing the proper type and size propeller for your model airplane is a crucial decision in terms of flight performance. Certain considerations must be taken into account when selecting a good propeller for your model airplane, such as material type, diameter, pitch and blade count. Installing a smaller or larger diameter propeller than recommended can cause damage to your model airplane's engine, in addition to inhibiting overall performance. Propeller size and type will also affect the amount of noise emanating from the model airplane during flight.

Things You'll Need

Plane engine documents

Instructions

- 1
  Consult the documents that came with your particular model airplane engine for propeller size and pitch recommendations. Four-stroke engines require a larger-diameter propeller than two-stroke motors. If you do not have the original documentation for your particular engine, consult a generic propeller sizing chart for guidance.
- 2
  Consider purchasing a rigid wood or carbon-fiber propeller for the best efficiency and performance. Although they are lightweight and offer the best performance, wooden propellers break easier than any other type.
- 3
  Try fiberglass-reinforced nylon propellers for a durable alternative to wooden or carbon-fiber based products. Fiberglass-reinforced nylon propellers flex easily, therefore they perform less efficiently.
- 4
  Decide whether to purchase a conventional or multi-blade propeller. Model airplanes that have a small amount of ground clearance, or feature more than one engine, may require the use of multi-blade propellers.

Aviation