Fixing prop with epoxy metal

BogMonster · 08 November 2006, 10:23

I know the answer is that you should send it back to a prop specialist to be welded and refinished but....

as with anything else its a long way from here to the nearest prop specialist!

Has anybody ever tried fixing nicks in the leading edge of an alli prop with that 2 part epoxy metal stuff? the stuff I have is called Hard and Fast, its like a 2 pack putty that you mash together and then it sets rock hard, they say it can be used for all sorts of things and you can file it, drill it, grind it etc etc. there are other things like JB Weld that might be usable for the same thing.

Just wondered what would happen if you smoothed off a few dings in the leading edge of a prop with it, and then filed it back to a smooth shape following the original curve of the leading edge?

It may be a daft idea, any views?

matt h · 08 November 2006, 10:45

tried it and it last seconds!! just get it welded!!!

codprawn · 08 November 2006, 14:25

If it was a big pit or gouge near the hub then yes it would work but it is too brittle to work as a replacement for part of the blade if the hole is right through.Of course you have nothing at all to lose by trying it - just make the prop is underwater so you won't get hit if the bits fly off!!!

BogMonster · 08 November 2006, 14:48

OK just wondered - never heard of anybody trying it, so there had to be a reason why people don't use it! I suppose its blade flex that kills it, hadn't thought of that

Just get it welded. Sounds easy when you say it like that doesn't it

codprawn · 08 November 2006, 15:19

I would have thought any decent welder could do the job - as long as you aren't asking too much of him.

jyasaki · 08 November 2006, 18:25

Aluminum prop? Stainless?

Aluminum, if you have a decent welder, should be able to build up the area beyond where the material should be. You can then play prop shop, and re-contour the blades yourself. The flex will correct for any small deviation that may be left (needless to say, this is for minor dings and such, where the blade shape is still evident. Don't try replacing half a lost blade...)

Stainless gets a bit trickier, as the flex won't be there. Also harder to work.

Need to watch the balance, but for small repairs, it shouldn't be an issue.

jky