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Spring is in the air, and we bet you’re itching to get back in the skies after a long, cold winter. But before you do, it’s important to prep your aircraft and ensure it’s in tip-top shape for another busy flying season. 

We have a few tips to get you started: 

#1: Spring Clean Your Airplane (and Propeller!) 

In the spirit of spring cleaning, now’s a great time to freshen up your aircraft inside and out. Start by washing the exterior of your airplane to remove any insects, dirt, or dust that may have accumulated during storage. We recommend cleaning your aircraft propeller using a mild solution of dish soap and water. (Just make sure to wash the blades in a downward direction to ensure soapy water doesn’t run into the propeller hub!) 

When it comes to the interior, remove any trash, vacuum thoroughly, and wipe down surfaces. This is a good time to check the logbooks and records — including your propeller owner’s manual and logbook. If your prop is approaching TBO, schedule your overhaul service at the Hartzell Service Center or one of the shops in our Hartzell Global Services network. You could also choose from one of the independently-owned facilities in our Recommended Service Facilities (RSF) network. Being proactive about any service means you can avoid prolonged downtime and make the most of the summer flying season.

#2: Inspect Carefully

A pre-flight inspection is always recommended, but if your aircraft has been sitting for weeks or months, it’s even more important to carefully check for any surface damage or mechanical issues. Here are a few key signs to watch for:

• Hangar rash, which can occur on the wings, cowling, propeller blades, etc.
• Leaks in rubber hoses or around seals and gaskets. 
• Nicks, cracks, or gouges on your propeller blades
• Chipped paint, including on your propeller blades
• Missing or loose hardware
• Signs of wildlife such as chewed wires and rodent droppings, feathers or fur in your cabin or cowling
• Water or foreign matter in the fuel system
• Worn-down or underinflated tires

Note: If you notice any damage to your aircraft propeller, don’t ignore it. Especially with aluminum blades, even seemingly minor nicks or dents can escalate under the stresses of flight.

One of the key advantages of Hartzell’s carbon fiber composite blades is that minor repairs can often be accomplished “on-wing” without needing to remove the propeller. For certified aircraft, approved repairs can be performed by an A&P mechanic. For experimental aircraft, repairs may be completed by the builder/owner in accordance with applicable regulations. Always refer to your propeller owner’s manual for repair criteria and procedures. 

#3: Consider Mods—Including a Propeller Upgrade!

Time away from your airplane may have you dreaming about ways to improve its performance and ramp appeal come springtime. The beauty of owning your own aircraft is that many customizations and modifications are within reach. It all depends on your performance goals, typical flight missions, and the value you want to add to your aircraft.  

For example, you might consider new wing tips, a more powerful powerplant combination, STOL kit, or even advanced avionics.

If you’re ready for advanced, high-quality propeller blades certified for unlimited life, consider upgrading to a Hartzell carbon fiber composite aircraft propeller. Our lightweight, structural carbon fiber composite aircraft propellers are designed for real-world durability, with built-in leading edge protection and field repairability so you can operate with confidence on or off-runway. With reduced lifecycle costs and longer blade life expectancy, Hartzell’s structural carbon fiber composite propeller blades offer significant long-term value for your propeller investment.

At Hartzell Propeller, we take pride in providing pilots access to quality propeller upgrades through our Top Prop STC performance propeller conversion program. We offer options for leading aircraft brands, including Cirrus, Cessna, Beechcraft, Piper, Mooney, Pilatus, Daher TBM, and many others. 

A Top Prop conversion allows owners to upgrade to our innovative new propeller designs featuring scimitar propeller blades, blended airfoils, and rugged carbon fiber composite propeller blades.

Check out our new Top Prop search tool to find a propeller that fits your airframe and engine combination. 

Let’s Spring into Flying Season

Taking the time to prepare your aircraft before the first flight of the season is an investment in safety, reliability, and performance. The propeller is one of the most critical components on your aircraft, so be sure to give it the attention it deserves before you fly.

Have questions about propeller maintenance, repairs, or a Top Prop upgrade for your aircraft? Reach out to our team today. We’re always happy to answer your questions!