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At Hartzell Propeller, we’re a company of aviators. We’re passionate about making flying safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for pilots around the world. We also understand the desire to get every flying hour possible out of your investment in a propeller. However, operating an aircraft with a propeller in need of an overhaul and replacement is a serious safety risk. Here are a few reasons you might want to consider a propeller replacement.

You’ve reached or exceeded your propeller’s operational life limit

Propeller manufacturers, like Hartzell Propeller, publish specific overhaul limits for every propeller to help pilots protect their investment and promote safety in the skies. Operating a prop beyond its overhaul limits can be highly dangerous, even if the propeller appears to be in good condition during visual inspections. Following recommended overhaul times can often prevent small issues in the propeller from developing into significant, more expensive problems.

Your prop has physical damage or corrosion

During preflight checks, you should also be inspecting your propeller for signs of physical damage and corrosion. Look for damage such as nicks, dings, cuts, and dents on the blades and hub of the propeller. You should also look for signs of external corrosion on the blades and internal corrosion within the propeller’s hub. Some damage is not always visible to the naked eye and may only be identified and addressed during an overhaul at a certified propeller repair facility.

You want to optimize performance with an upgraded prop

A propeller conversion is one of the smartest investments and upgrades you can make for the safety and performance of your aircraft. At Hartzell Propeller, our innovative Top Prop conversion program provides a way for pilots to improve the performance of their aircraft significantly. Our propeller conversions are known to offer benefits in one or more performance areas including shorter take-off distance, lower noise levels, better ground clearance, reduced tip erosion, increased climb rate, increased cruise speed, and smoother operations. Hartzell also offers an extended warranty on Top Prop conversion propellers all the way through the first overhaul to help reduce the costs of flying and encourage safety through recommended periodic maintenance.

If one or more of the reasons above apply to you, we encourage you to learn more about Hartzell Propeller’s Top Prop conversion program or find one of our Recommended Service Facilities and Service and Support Centers near you for your overhaul and repair needs.