Servicing a feathering prop

[TimFromLI]

I have an autostream feathering prop of unknown age. I'm not sure how well it was maintained and it feels a little rough when I turn it. As if some bearings are worn or a little corroded, I don't know - maybe it's normal. How often should these be serviced? Does anyone know of a company that does this (in the US).

 

[FastOlson]

Why not ask the long time US distributor?

Home

www.martec-props.com

I bought one of their Martec (Autostream) bronze props a couple decades ago. It looks like nowadays they may service them, but perhaps not sell them.

 

[Rich Stidger]

According to Seahawk, the Australian manufacturer, the AutoStream props are being discontinued. Some parts are still available. Martec is the USA distributor.

I purchased one of the S1 3-blade feathering props in 1999, and I grease it yearly and change the zinc as required. I did change the O-rings once about 10-15 years ago. My blades turn smoothly and quietly. Servicing it has never been on my radar. The prop has been used for about 3000 hours.

I did design a stainless hub that bolts to the tip of the blade that allows me to use an $8 standard 3/4" shaft zinc instead of the special design $35 unit sold by Martec.

I have attached the AutoStream installation and service manual for your reference.

 

[TimFromLI]

Thanks for all the replies and the PDF, that is a big help. I think I'll get some second opinions on the feel of the pinion/bearings before I go tearing anything apart. It's good to hear that they have a long life.

 

[4arch]

I did design a stainless hub that bolts to the tip of the blade that allows me to use an $8 standard 3/4" shaft zinc instead of the special design $35 unit sold by Martec.

I love this idea! The specialty zincs are, like everything, creeping up in price. What material did you buy to make the hub?

 

[TimFromLI]

I got new o-rings from Martec. They still sell them, everything else seems solid. I too would be interested in how you made the hub. Is it a sleeve that fits over the original ?

 

[Rich Stidger]

I got new o-rings from Martec. They still sell them, everything else seems solid. I too would be interested in how you made the hub. Is it a sleeve that fits over the original ?

Yes. I machined a stainless rod and drilled to fit like the OEM zinc. A standard 3/4" zinc fits onto this sleeve. Easily made if you have stainless stock and a lathe. You can see it in my pictures in post #3 above.