Prop tape

[NigelM]

Being a relative newbie has anyone got any tips/advice on how to apply prop tape on a flexwing? Apart from "very carefully"
Nigel

[papa delta]

Nigel,
works best if you put it on a prop!

If I remember rightly, Stewart Read had instructions when he was building his Rans - is it stainless or clear tape??

In either case you start on the flat side of the blade and work your way over the edge to the curved side.

Bubbles can be removed by using a pin to prick the bubble.

Peter

[davea]

Also, how do you ensure balance across the blades.

Dave Adley

[NigelM]

Haven't bought the tape yet.  I was going to use the P&M product which I believe is plastic tape?
I was concerned about it not lying flat on the curved surfaces.  Obviously the aerofoil section of the prop is curved but also the leading edge of the prop is curved too.  I had visions of it getting creased on some of the curves.
Maybe if applied in warm weather the tape can be stretched to fit the curves??
Nigel

[markv]

It helps to apply on a hot day, and make sure leading edge is perfectly clean or it will not stick, try to keep your fingers off the sticky side too, it may help to very gently warm the blade with a hot air gun or hairdrier prior to fitting, also make sure lenghts are of equal lenghts to help with balance etc.
Hope this helps!! Mark

[papa delta]

Nigel
Cannot remember if you have wooden or fibreglass blades, but would suggest the if the blades are fibreglass it may be better to not put on prop tape.
Tape was initially designed for wooden blades to help prevent nicks etc and to maintain a good 'clean' edge if stone hits the leading edge of the blade.  Fibreglass is obviously harder and stones tend not to cause as much damage.

Peter

[Mike]

But if you do decide to do it, Nigel - don't ask Markie to borrow his hairdrier - he uses it daily!!! 

Mike

[Glynn]

Best thing to clean the prop prior to application of any adhesive is IPA ( Iso propyl alcohol ).
Unless you get the surface perfectly clean and free of any grease the prop will throw it off.
As far as balance is concerned, cut all pieces ( one for each blade ) exactly the same size and shape, and make sure you measure the same distance from the blade root to position them.  That way your balance will not be affected.  The clear polyurethane type is manufactured by 3M, if you buy from P&M you will pay a huge premium.

[NigelM]

Thanks for all your advice.
I will wait for warmer weather.....could be a while yet!
Nigel