Balancing the Propellers
Obtain a prop balancer. Below are several commonly accepted methods for balancing.
Sanding Method 1:
Balance by sanding material from the very end of the heavy blade. This will
avoid changing the airfoil shape and avoid the possibility of weakening the
blade.
Sanding Method 2:
Lightly sand the back side of the heavier blade with fine sandpaper. Re-check
often to avoid removing too much material which could cause weakness.
CA Method:
Apply a drop of medium CA to the back side of the light blade, and use a piece
of waxed paper or a plastic bag over your finger to smooth the CA into a thin
film. Cure the CA with a light spray of accelerator. Re-check the balance. Apply
more CA in thin layers until the propeller is balanced. NOTE: Before adding
glue to a prop, make sure it is absolutely clean and free of any oil residue.
A prop is truly balanced if it can be stopped and will
remain stationary in any position. If the prop comes to rest in a level position,
but is still obviously out of balance (hole slightly off-center), you may need
to add weight to the lighter side of the hub (see CA method).
Do not remove material from the hub. This could weaken the prop, making it unsafe.
CAUTION: Do
not attempt to remove material by carving with a knife, as this can leave cuts
where cracks can begin to form.
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