Lorn,

In this case you have to compare apples to apples. I like the Aero Comp. Prop. and think it is a superior prop as far as construction.
Hartzell worked with Lancair and and specifically designed a 3 blade model for the Legacy, so it is optimum for the planes aero dynamics. Where as the Aero Comp. Prop. Is a standard model trimmed down to the size you want. I looked at the Reno races and checked on what Prop. the fastest planes had and it was a Hartzell. That may be because no one had an Aero Comp Prop? Another factor is cost, the Aero Comp. cost $ 15K and the Hartzell $ 11K $ 4k is hard to argue with!

From my research from people that have flown the 3 blade Hartzell (Designed for the Legacy) and the 3 blade Aero Comp. (Both the same size) on their planes, is that the Aero is only a few knots slower. Now maybe one performs better for climb, or one performs better at higher altitudes, one will never know unless exhaustive scientific testing is done.

The main factor for me may be weight and how a heaver Hartzell will affect my W&B I want to install two auxiliary fuel tanks in the leading wing edge area that usually gets the lights. I am planning on some long international trips and want the comfort of the extra fuel when I do those trips, otherwise I won't use them. So in this case I may opt for the Aero Comp. Prop.

Another factor is serviceability, Hartzell is everywhere you go.



Tough decision!

Kevin Kossi

New York

Legacy 70% (No Prop yet)




On Oct 24, 2006, at 9:23 AM, Lorn H Olsen wrote:

Tom & Kevin,

I have flown behind a 2 bladed Aero Composites (aerocomposites.com) prop for the last 3 years. I had Hartzells. I like the Aero Composites prop better.

After flying it for 3 years I believe that the ACI prop has added between 5 & 7 knots to my speed.

I had an engine overspeed last year (3,500 RPM). This overspeed did not cause any prop problems. The leading edge is nickel and after 400 hours is still as smooth as silk.

Kevin,

You should take a look at ACI. They are near you in Kensington, CT.

Lorn

From: "Tom Williams" <tfsent@worldnet.att.net>

No one has mentioned the Aero Composites prop. They make a very nice prop 2, 3, or 4 blades and reasonable price!!!

--
Lorn H. 'Feathers' Olsen, MAA, DynaComm, Corp.
248-345-0500, mailto:lorn@dynacomm.ws
LNC2, O-320-D1F, 1,200 hrs, N31161, Y47, SE Michigan