Carve Your Own Prop
MAKING YOUR OWN PROPELLERS can be challenging, rewarding, and fun. It can be handy, particularly for large, difficult-to-get props or for those with unusual pitches. It's also nice to be able to make your own laminated antique scale propeller, and it's handy to be able to make a prop you just ran out of-one that doesn't happen to be on the hobby shop shelf when you need it. For the most part, the same principles apply to model props and full-size propellers. The theories, terms, and math can be pretty heavy reading. If there appears to be some oversimplification here, it's because I want to encourage those who would otherwise give up before they start, thereby missing out on a gratifying, often-overlooked part of the hobby. Making propellers may not be for everyone, but if you can hang in there long enough to try it, you will find it intriguing and addictive.
Hotrodding the O.S. 20 4-Stroke
IF YOU PURCHASED the O.S. 20 four-stroke, then you fell in love with it, as I did. But just as you did-presto!-they came out with the 26 Surpass: virtually the same weight and size, with more power. Curses-foiled again! If your budget is a bit tight, there may be an affordable alternative. Here may be the answer to your prayers: Change your 20 into a 26 Surpass. It's a lot easier than you might think. You will have to buy a new crankshaft for the 26 Surpass (O.S. part no. 44102000). The cost is approximately $25.50 U.S. The changeover will also cost you a little time-anywhere from two hours or so to an evening, depending on your skill and determination.
