SonexBuilders.net

Greetings,

I've just ordered a Onex kit, and I'll be using the Aerovee (maybe turbo) engine. In looking at the Sensenich prop options, I see wood finish, and composite. Unfortunately, I can't find much detail on either, even on the Sensenich page.

Does either version have a metal leading edge insert?

Is the composite finish that much better to warrant the difference in price? I figured the reason for it was to allow you to fly in the rain, but one interview I read with a Sensenich rep made it sound like the composite would just last a little longer in rain, but that it wasn't really intended to operate regularly in the rain. Of course I don't intend to operate in the rain any more than can be avoided, so I'm not sure what the composite will really do for me.

Thanks,
Rusty

I have the wood prop, the leading edge has a rubberized/resin fill about 1/4" deep along the outer 2/3rds of each blade. No metal to speak of on the prop. My best guess is that resin is designed to erode away and be filled/repaired before any wear reaches the actual wood.

Now that you describe it, I do recall seeing that on other wood props. I found this in a Sensenich info, which I must of missed before.

"Propeller leading edge protection is provided by an inlaid urethane leading edge, which is cast in place on the blade with no aerodynamic penalties.
Wood construction propellers are available with fiberglass covering for added environmental and abrasion protection. This is highly recommended for rough fields and/or pusher aircraft."

I don't plan to fly in rain, and I don't plan to visit any gravel runways, though that might be hard to avoid in East TN. The state logo for TN should be crushed rock :-)

Rusty

My wood Seinsenich is a beautiful prop, I love seeing the grain of the wood. It's a classic look.

Rynoth wrote:My wood Seinsenich is a beautiful prop, I love seeing the grain of the wood. It's a classic look.

After some debate, I also ordered wood instead of glass. I like the look, and I think it will be plenty durable, not to mention cheaper.

Thanks,
Rusty