## Propeller Removal and Installation 

## Removal 

The following procedure is for demonstration purposes only. Always use the current manufacturer’s information when removing and installing any propeller. 

1. Remove the spinner dome in accordance with the spinner removal procedures. Cut and remove the safety wire (if installed) on the propeller mounting studs. 

2. Support the propeller assembly with a sling. If the propeller IS reinstalled and has been dynamically balanced, make an identifying mark (with a felt-tipped pen only) on the propeller hub and a matching mark on the engine flange to make sure of proper orientation during reinstallation to prevent dynamic imbalance. 

3. Unscrew the four mounting bolts from the engine bushings. Unscrew the two mounting nuts and the attached studs from the engine bushings. If the propeller is removed between overhaul intervals, mounting studs, nuts, and washers may be reused if they are not damaged or corroded. 

CAUTION: remove the propeller from the mounting flange with care to prevent damaging the propeller mounting studs. Using the support sling, remove the propeller from the mounting flange. 

4. Place the propeller on a cart for transport. 

## Installation 

A flange propeller has six studs configured in a four-inch circle. Two special studs that also function as dowel pins are provided to transfer torque and index the propeller with respect to the engine crankshaft. The dowel pin locations used on a particular propeller installation are indicated in the propeller model stamped on the hub. Perform the applicable steps under Spinner Pre-Installation and clean the engine flange and propeller flange with quick dry stoddard solvent or methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). Install the O-ring in the O-ring groove in the hub bore. NOTE: When the propeller is received from the factory, the O-ring has usually been installed. With a suitable support, such as a crane hoist or similar equipment, carefully move the propeller assembly to the aircraft engine mounting flange in preparation for installation. 

Install the propeller on the engine flange. Make certain to align the dowel studs in the propeller flange with the corresponding holes in the engine mounting flange. The propeller may be installed on the engine flange in a given position, or 180° from that position. Check the engine and airframe manuals to determine if either manual specifies a propeller mounting position. 

CAUTION: Mounting hardware must be clean and dry to prevent excessive preload of the mounting flange. 

CAUTION: Tighten nuts evenly to avoid hub damage. 

Install the propeller mounting nuts (dry) with spacers. Torque the propeller mounting nuts (dry) in accordance with the proper specifications and safety wire the studs in pairs (if required by the aircraft maintenance manual) at the rear of the propeller mounting flange. 

## Servicing Propellers 

Propeller servicing includes cleaning, lubricating, and replenishing operating lubrication supplies. 

## Cleaning Propeller Blades 

Aluminum and steel propeller blades and hubs are usually cleaned by washing the blades with a suitable cleaning solvent, using a brush or cloth. Do not use acid or caustic materials. Power buffers, steel wool, steel brushes, or any other tool or substance that may scratch or mar the blade should be avoided. If a high polish is desired, a number of good grades of commercial metal polish are available. After completing the polishing operation, immediately remove all traces of polish. When the blades are clean, coat them with a clean film of engine oil or suitable equivalent. 

To clean wooden propellers, use warm water and a mild soap, together with brushes or cloth. If a propeller has been subjected to salt water, flush it with fresh water until all traces of salt have been removed. This should be accomplished as soon as possible after the salt water has splashed on the propeller, regardless of whether the propeller parts are aluminum alloy, steel, or wood. After flushing, thoroughly dry all parts, and coat metal parts with clean engine oil or a suitable equivalent. 

To remove grease or oil from propeller surfaces, apply Stoddard Solvent or equivalent to a clean cloth and wipe the part clean. Using a noncorrosive soap solution, wash the propeller. Thoroughly rinse with water. Permit to dry. Aluminum and steel propeller blades and hubs usually are cleaned by washing the blades with a suitable cleaning solvent, using a brush or cloth. Do not use acid or caustic materials. Avoid power buffers, steel wool, steel brushes, or any other tool or substance that may scratch or mar the blade. If a high polish is desired, a number of good grades of commercial metal polish are available. After completing the polishing operation, immediately remove all traces of polish. When the blades are clean, coat them with a clean film of engine oil or suitable equivalent. 

