Dynamic Prop Balancing

[rosslr]

For those who are interested, I had the dynamic prop balancing done a week or so ago. It has made a difference. Before, I would look for a sweet spot in warm up as I could really tell the difference if I just did them at say 2000rpm Vs 2250rpm. After the balancing the engine is very smooth at all revs and I noticed it much smoother in cruise too - although I didn't really notice it being rough before!

The prop was delivered static balanced. The first reading was .4in/s - which I am told is pretty average. The aim is to get it balanced to the reading is under .1in/s. We ended up at .037 in/sec so happy with that. It took about two hours by the time we wired up the sensors and go the wires and computers in to the cockpit. the tests are done at cruise revs and adjustments made via addition of weights to the spinner back plate at the position the computer tells you to add them. All in all a very good investment I think.

I wish I could balance the 26"ABW's too as they give a noticeable 'wobble' on take off and before I can hit the brakes!

cheers

ross

[PapuaPilot]

The starting IPS on your prop sounds pretty normal. Getting a final IPS under .04 on a piston powered engine is excellent. You really should be noticing the difference. The other big benefit is less wear on the airframe due to the lower vibration.

You can balance your main wheels. Before you do make sure the wobble you feel isn't due to the tires taking a set while being parked. If the tires really need balancing you should be able to find some one who can show you how to do a static balance. The balancing is done with either lead weights on the wheel hub or stick on rubber weights that are put on the inside of your tires.

I got the new E-Mag installation nearly finished today. I just need set the timing, tidy up the wiring and the engine should be ready to start.

[rosslr]

HI Phil,

yes, really can notice the difference! and thank for the heads up on rubber weights - not familiar with them.

Now you are REALLY close Phil! looking forward to your news!

cheers

r

[kmach]

Any specific brand of system you used for the balance?

[rosslr]

g'day Kevin,

I had it done at my friendly local maintenance facility - don't hold me to this but I think it was Microvibe or something similar. I really can notice the difference.

chers

r

[DesertFox4]

Likely a Dyna Vibe. They are sponsors of this site and lots of Kitfoxs have benefited from prop balancing. :)

[PapuaPilot]

The brand of equipment doesn't matter. You just need one that can do the job. Some are a little more user friendly though.

[Danzer1]

The brand of equipment doesn't matter. You just need one that can do the job. Some are a little more user friendly though.

There are differences. The Dynavibe GX2 has 2 sensors and can locate other sources of vibrations on the engine in addition to doing prop balance.