Spinner or spinnerless

[harneymaki]

I'm putting togeather a list of must order parts for my PA 18 and wondering if I need to buy a new spinner or just do a really nice job on the saftey wire? Pros and cons please.

Thanks

 

[aktango58]

Check the TC.

Some engines do not like being with out a spinner. The spinner pushes lots of air into the cowl, increasing the cooling on the engine.

With the 180 hp I did not need a spinner, and did not install one. It looked unfinished to some, and just plain mean to others.

 

[NimpoCub]

Mine (beauty that she is) just has a pink air filter cover thingie screwed on over the prop hub. Kinda looks like a Piper Mammary. Maybe that's why I call 'er her. I was thinking of a (single cup) bra, but figgered the straps would get tangled, & being a guy, I like 'em exposed anyway.

 

[RedEye]

Got one you can have. No back plate. Came off mine so it should fit yours. Let me know if you want it.

 

[polarpete]

I think as a general rule you will get better cooling with a spinner. Might get less drag also.

 

[tempdoug]

Im trying to get this. So the air that normally hits the 8 inch center of the prop is going to jump out 2 feet and go around the outside of the cowling? doug

 

[tempdoug]

Without a spinner. sorry about that, i shouldve said that. doug

 

[RedEye]

tempdoug,

No, it will just be smoother, less turbulant air flowing better through the cowl. Some engines dont care, some do !!

 

[tempdoug]

Ive allready convinced myself to go spinnerless, because like metal bungee covers its just more stuff to come loose or in the way. if my cub had a jet engine or 180 hp maybe id have to rethink things. 90hp, there isnt that much happening up there is there?. what i am im trying to figure out though is if a spinner will actually help the preformance of a propeller? anybody? I wonder if Jerry B has one on his J3? He always says everything has to carry its own weight or its not there. doug

 

[harneymaki]

I actually prefer the look of spinnerless, but if there is a function other than to reduce drag, I'll replace mine with a new one.