Where can I find folding propellers for my .061 Norvel (gas)engine for a 100" glider?

[aviator1zz]

Does anyone know where to find a folding prop for a glow engine like the Norvel .061? It would reduce my drag considerably while my Norvel totes my 100" Wind Drifter (with spoilers) up to thermal height from the nose.

On a side note, it only gets it up on high nitro fuel and Cox only sells the small containers I need, but can't find anymore. Does anyone know where I can buy a pint/liter of Cox fuel? I don't need a $35 gallon of high nitro fuel - they only sit and get wasted for 5 years and I'll only use 5% of the stuff in that time.

[BMatthews]

I'm afraid that you're stuck for the props. The Norvel only likes smaler and low pitch props and the only ones that may be available for this would be some custom made carbon fiber folders for use in the F1J power free flight event. But I can't think of any suppliers for you offhand. However I know there are a few cottage suppliers that make stuff like this for the F1A .15 power class so I would imagine they make the smaller ones too.

These props don't fold for drag reduction. They fold to reduce landing damage. So you'll need to figure out some sort of reliable and light method to use little springs or whatever to help them fold.

You'll also need a spinner and an electric starter since you can't flip the folding blades. Not to mention that a bad back bump may well damage the critical hub area where the pin goes through.

There are some electric model folders but without exception the blades are too wide and they are not intended for the RPMS and vibration that you can get from the Norvel.

Find some other racers or 1/2A fliers in your area and split up the fuel. That's about all you can do.

Frankly there's not that much drag from a 5 to 6 inch prop on the nose of a 100 inch glider. Especially one that is intended to fly so slowly and has as a lot of built in drag such as the Wind Drifter does. I'd just live with the fixed prop if I was you.

[aviator1zz]

I really appreciate your time! -nice place where you live. I almost got to work on a clean gas project there a couple of years ago. Yea, the prop isn't a major drag issue as the thing stays up forever, but I always thought it'd be slick if there was one out there. -Best regards.

[Norm Furutani]

I pretty much agree with Bmatthews, but if you want to try a folder Dave Edmondson has them at: http://www.glidetek.com/freeflight/f1j/FoldProps.asp

As for fuel, I use 25% Sig Champion fuel. It's available in various sizes(pints, quarts and gallons). Also Norvel sells fuel, too. But Sig should be the easiest to get and it's good stuff.

- Norm

[BMatthews]

THAT'S THE STUFF! Thanks Norm.

So..... $35 eh? If that doesn't scare you into laying down until the feeling goes away then you're REALLLY hooked.... :D