Hartzell Trailblazer Composite Prop Receives Supplemental Type Certificate for Super Cubs
Hartzell Propeller's 83-inch, composite Trailblazer propeller receives a supplemental type certificate (STC) for Super Cub PA-12 and PA-18 aircraft. Hartzell Propeller worked closely with Professional Pilots, Inc., which owns the STC and is marketing the conversion program from its Lowell, IN, 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 miles per hour. At 2,350 and, say, 18 inches, it burns eight gallons per hour. 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 1,500 feet per minute climb at 2,630 revolutions per minute. 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," says 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 on 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 information, go to www.propilotsinc.com or call 219-696-8726.