Verner prop

[jrbirdman47]

Looking for propeller information for the Verner/ LEXL build. With a bunch of these already out there flying I'm sure you've come up with a good fit for the LEXL and can let me know the proper length, pitch, and possibly maker.

Thanks!  Rick

[jrbirdman47]

I've found a note within previous posts that refer to a 67 X 30 prop. Would a propeller maker know the Verner hub configuration to be able to make a propeller? I expect the engine to be here in 3 weeks and need to get started on a propeller.

[Dan_]

Rick,
You may want to get in touch with Performance Propellers...  Frank retired and sold the business I understand but they apparently still sell the prop.

Contact Details

 
Our Location 
Yorkville, IL 60560, USA 
 
Call Us 
630-551-8733 
 
Our Email 
flyperfprops@gmail.com
​

[Chuck in Indiana]

I had Ed Sterba make a prop for mine. From memory.. he said it was the same as VW. He's retired, now.. but I can get the dimensions from my prop if you want.

[jrbirdman47]

Thanks guys, I'll look into these.
Chuck, are you sure the dimensions would be the same as for the VW? Seems like a 1000 rpm difference would require a different length/ pitch prop.

[Chuck in Indiana]

Oh, no no.. I thought you were wanting the bolt circle for mounting. From memory, it's 67" I just told Ed the probable cruise speed, rpm, and he made it.
You said:

Would a propeller maker know the Verner hub configuration to be able to make a propeller?

[jrbirdman47]

  Oh. Sorry about that! That makes more sense.

And yes, if it's not too much trouble, your dimensions would be nice too.

Thanks again!

[Tom H]

JRbirdman, we have a flying LE with Verner 3VW (Treehugger).  You ask about a prop for the LEXL, but maybe this info for the LE will help.

Frank Johnson, then-owner of Performance Propellers worked with us to dial in a prop back in 2018.  I tried to decipher my notes as best as I could:

We started out with a 62 dia x 38 pitch - it flew, not very good climb, which is what we were looking for.  Modified by Frank to 62 x 36.  Still did not like it.

Then put on a 67 x 38.  We did not fly it because it did not accelerate quickly enough to flying speed for the airstrip.

The 67 x 38 was modified by Frank to a 67 x 34.  It static pulled 180 lbs (be aware that static does not necessarily translate to flying performance).  I don't think we flew it.  We cut off 2" of diameter to get 65 x 34, got 170 lbs static pull.  Flew it, climb was about 275 ft/min, best so far.  We flew this prop at Oshkosh in 2018. 

I have a note that says that Les Homan was testing a 67 x 30 prop that Frank made.  Don't know what he ended up with.

Frank made us a 67 x 32, which is flying on the airplane now, and seems like a good compromise.  From notes, climb is around 250 - 300 fpm. 

We were surprised when we heard that Frank sold the business to the gentleman in Illinois, but he said that he has all the info, so should be able to make a good prop for you.

Hope this helps.
Tom H

[Chuck in Indiana]

Ed built a 67-36 for me. I'll let you know about static rpm next spring.  I'll clip the tips if that doesn't work. These are experimental, after all..

[jrbirdman47]

Thanks so much for the info, guys.
Performance is quoting 14 to 18 months to build one.
Ouch.

[Chuck in Indiana]

Have you looked at Warp Drive? Adjustable pitch sounds like it might be a good thing..

[jrbirdman47]

I haven't, Chuck. But I will now!

[Chuck in Indiana]

Mr. Birdman, I took the Verner off the engine stand today, so I can give you dimensions.

Prop bolts are M8 on a 4 inch bolt circle.
Drive lugs are .509" dia. which is just under 13mm.
Depth of drive lugs are .455" which is just under 12mm.

[jrbirdman47]

Thanks, Chuck. I spoke with Warp Drive, they have a 10 to 13 week lead time. Performance was 14 to 18 months. O
I ordered a 66 inch version. I don't know if anyone else has used the WD prop on a Verner. I wonder about the composite blade's kinetic characteristics vs. a wood propeller. (twisting, flexing, etc) I guess I'll find out.

[Chuck in Indiana]

I *think* Les has experimented with one. If my prop doesn't work out, I'll be looking at a warp drive too. So, how far are you along? Flying this summer?