Prop strike (from experience)
dsgilmer said:
I am thinking about buying an RV-4 that has had a previous prop strike, and would like to know what I should be looking for to make sure all the required inspections and repairs have been done properly. It was upon landing, and just bent the prop tips. The engine was a Lycoming 0360 with a Hartzel CS prop. I suspect everything is in order, but would like to have someones advice in what exactly to watch out for. Thanks
I have experienced two prop strikes. The first was rather major and the second more minor. In both cases I had the engine removed/inspected and the prop replaced/repaired.
First was at OSH on "getaway day" in 2001.
In the first case, the engine was shutdown after I heard the "tinging" of the prop on the concrete. The tips were bent about three inches. The engine was TBO and EAA, bless their hearts, stepped up and paid for my repairs, minus the overhaul cost. Things have changed and if you get damaged at OSH, it's "tough luck" now.
Second time while taxiing at RNT (same airplane).
In the second case, the tips of the propeller had only been deformed about an inch. The engine was inspected and determined to be undamaged.A local prop shop reconditioned the prop and an IA signed it off as serviceable. That was 380 hours ago and no problems since. My total bill for the R&R, engine inspection and prop reconditioning was about $13,500. Avemco to the rescue, I did not have to pay a dime.
By far, the major cost of both inspection(s) was the R&R (remove and replace). If you do the remove and replace, you will save a TON of money. You can in fact, legally remove the engine and tear it down yourself, prior to having the parts inspected, then have a local A&P reassemble the engine.
I was in a certified aircraft and did not have that option.
Just a thought,
JP