#1
Posted: 4/13/2011 21:03:58
I have tried searching this subject as I remember recently reading a discussion about these propellors. Can anyone tell me if an Aeromatic Prop can be used on an LSA airplane? It is not a constant speed but I seem to remember reading that since it "adjusts" it is not eligible. Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you
#2
Posted: 4/13/2011 23:15:38
The Light Sport definition (14 CFR 1.1) says, "(7) A fixed or
ground-adjustable propeller if a powered aircraft other than a powered
glider." The Aeromatic is a variable pitch propeller.
Ron Wanttaja
#3
Posted: 4/14/2011 07:24:33
Ron,
I agree that is why I posed the question. While the Aeromatic varies in pitch it is still a ground adjustable propellor. There is no way to adjust it in flight since the adjustment is done via weights, therefore it is adjusted on the ground. I know I am looking at a loophole here, and the other side of the arguement states "fixed pitch", I guess a good attorney could have a field day with it. 
There are several other props on the marlket that are degisned to "twist" as the load changes even though they are a fixed pitch prop. Maybe I am mistaken but the Prince and Catto might be a couple of these.
Generally once these props are set up correctly they don't need any further adjustment. I think Tarver does a beautiful job refurbishing these propellors and I may need to just give up on the idea of putting one on an LSA complient plane. 
Regards,
Keith
#4
Posted: 4/15/2011 22:53:49
No, according to most people, because it is a variable pitch porpeller.
I plan to submit a request to the organization to make it legal.
The guys that drafted the regs probably didn't know there was such a thing as an automatic pitch propeller.
I guess they didn't want a prop control in the cockpit to distract the pilot.
Kent Tarver
www.aeromtic.com