Hartzell Propeller’s 83-inch composite Trailblazer propeller has received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for Super Cub PA-12 and PA-18 aircraft.
The announcement is being made this week by the company at Sun ‘n Fun in Lakeland, Fla., and AERO Friedrichshafen in Germany. Hartzell Propeller worked closely with Professional Pilots Inc., which owns the STC, and is marketing the conversion program from its Lowell, Ind. facility.
Doug Brewer, of Alaska West Air Inc, who flies a Super Cub in Alaska, is the first customer to be able to take advantage of the improved Trailblazer performance. He says, “I do moose counts six hours a day at 70-80 mph. At 2,350 and say 18 inches it burns eight gph. This is quite a bit less than a big aluminum prop.”
Brewer adds, “So it seems to be more efficient. It is very smooth. With 70 gallons and just me on wheel/skis, I saw 1,500ft per minute climb at 2,630 rpm. I have flown the plane with max loads and it is working better than any other prop I’ve had.”
“This conversion allows your engine to reach its maximum rated horsepower RPM immediately upon throttle advancement. Take off thrust is increased by as much as 30 percent compared to many fixed pitch models, reducing take off distance dramatically,” said Brian Sutton, founder and general manager of Professional Pilots Inc. “Cruise speed is also increased by nearly 20 percent, allowing much greater efficiency and less engine wear. This conversion provides the best in all flight spectrums.”
The unlimited life Hartzell Trailblazer features a field replaceable nickel-cobalt leading edge to withstand demanding backcountry and bush flying. Due to its durability and light weight, the all carbon fiber construction permits Hartzell to optimize blade chord thickness and sweep while achieving maximum strength.
Professional Pilots Inc. is a small business dedicated to providing innovative solutions and improvements to the general aviation industry. The company identifies aircraft that are struggling with old technology, and provides the best enhancements available. The company has received STC approval for the installation of Hartzell props on the entire Piper PA-32 line, as well as to Piper PA-18 and PA-12 aircraft. In addition, it holds the STC for the installation of a new high performance exhaust system on Piper Super Cubs and PA-12s with engines ranging from 150 to 180 horsepower. For more info go to www.propilotsinc.com or call 219-696-8726.
