Aircraft Propellers
The propeller is a type-certificated component in its own right — separate from the engine, separate from the airframe. It has its own serial number, its own data plate, its own service history, and its own TBO. Treat it accordingly.
Propeller families
- Fixed pitch — one-piece aluminum prop, common on trainers (Cessna 150/152, Piper Warrior). McCauley and Sensenich dominate.
- Constant-speed (CS) — variable-pitch prop with a governor. The dominant configuration on complex and high-performance singles and every twin. Hartzell, McCauley, and MT-Propeller are the main OEMs.
- Counter-rotating — twin-engine installations where one engine turns clockwise and the other counter-clockwise. Specific prop P/N per position.
- Composite — Hartzell Composite and MT-Propeller blades offer lighter weight and improved vibration damping; common on Cirrus and Beechcraft upgrades.
Mandatory overhaul intervals
- Most Hartzell and McCauley constant-speed propellers: 2,000 flight hours or 6 calendar years (whichever comes first) for piston installations; some variants allow 10 years.
- Fixed-pitch props: calendar-based inspection, dressing, and occasional overhaul per the manufacturer’s service letter.
- Composite blades: separate overhaul criteria; always consult the specific prop service letter.
ADs to know
- Hartzell HC-series compact-hub ADs affect certain Bonanza and Baron installations.
- McCauley repetitive blade-inspection ADs apply to specific variants.
- Always check your prop data plate P/N against the FAA AD list before ordering parts.
Ordering propeller parts
We stock governors, spinners, spinner bulkheads, prop hardware, and prop-track tools. For overhauls we coordinate with your preferred prop shop. Provide prop make, model, serial, and last overhaul date when you contact us.
