Repairs to propeller blades
 

I have recently done a fantastic landing that has resulted in bending the blade a bit. In Australia, who are the recommended or approved Hartzell service centres? I kind of need an expert opinion on the matter so it should be an approved MRO right? Anyone got a list of aircraft propeller overhaul companies that are good or recommended?

What about the engine overhaul following the prop strike?

Yep, you're probably going to need to have a bulk strip...

1 question and 3 answers that miss the point, RTFQ - come on people. Who's to say the engine inspection isn't in the works and the guy/girl is looking for maintenance on the prop to return it to service

Maybe so but if that’s the case, surely the engineer looking at the engine would be the person to ask.

Get a LAME to look at it, he/she will be able to tell you in a few minutes if you are up for a bulk strip and new prop. There could also be airframe damage.

Also speak with your insurance company as they should foot the bill if the aircraft is insured.

Whatever you do DON’T run the engine as you could cause more damage.

Yes I am fully aware that the engine will require a bulk strip and I have been recommended a good engine shop. I am more concerned as to where to send the propeller. I would prefer to send it to a recommended service facility rather than leaving it in the hands of the insurance company.

What about a Rotax 912 with its slipper gearbox clutch? Rebuild?

The same applies Sunfish. A light scraping isn't a biggie but what do you think will happen at 3000+ rpm or similar?

There's a good summary of what needs doing here:

AeroFix Aviation - Rotax Service, Rotax Servicing, Rotax Repairs, Jabiru Overhauls

AD/ENG/6: " to an extent where significant bending or torsional load may have occurred,..........."

Again, CASA is imprecise. If there is ALWAYS a need to inspect, then say so. Research the outcomes of these inspections and if there is a pattern, develop a set of criteria to exclude what constitutes minor damage that is unlikely, at the 99% three sigma limit, to produce damage.

Thanks Sqawk7700.

CASA say any damage that needs to be carried out by a prop shop is significant (not a bit of dressing).


Southern Props in SA are good to deal with.


Got a photo of the prop?

We use both East Coast Props - Bankstown (John) and Propcare - Archerfield (Nigel). Nothing to complain about with either of these organisations.

East Coast has been more expensive for quoted jobs on repairs but cheaper for the outright purchase of a new prop.

I have heard that there are two in Bankstown. One really good and the other not so good. Not so concerned about the quote although I heard that if you go directly to the MRO it will be cheaper than an FBO. Someone told me that the other shop in Bankstown is a bit dodgy in terms of workmanship so I am reluctant about the 50 50 chances of calling the wrong shop but if you recommend East Coast I will probably give them a ring and see what they say.

Prop dressing...who can do it ?

If you have landed a dirt/ gravel strip far out in the boondocks, and get a bad ding in the blade leading edge...who can dress it out.?

Your friendly LAME.

In the Ag days a file from the loader tool box worked.

So you have someone doing the engine, finding a prop shop for the prop.


Who is removing/refitting the engine and prop?


A third entity?


This is a job I would stay well away from - best find a RMO, let your assessor know that's the one you want.


Then leave it all up to the RMO and the assessor to rectify it.


What will happen if after installation there is a defect with the engine or prop, say an oil leak on the crankcase that requires removal again?


If you arrange it the engine shop says fine we will fix the leak for free, just send the engine back. You can be up for removal/install costs and freight if applicable.


If the RMO arranges it even with your preferred engine shop, they will have a mark up that will cover this event and it is very clear where you go to get it fixed - the RMO.

Ah yes fujii...but you are in the boonies and the nearest friendly lame is 1000 miles away.
What then ?

While I concur with the Ag Days and the practical aspects..having had to do it in the past ...of course its the dichotomy? between the practical and the criminal.
The CAsA way of thinking, Strict liability and all that, criminal offence etc.

Since the PIC is supposed to be ultimately responsible for the safety of the flight,,? what then ?