Hartzell Propeller is expanding its Top Prop propeller upgrade program to make it more accessible and more affordable to a wider population of pilots.
The Piqua, Ohio-based company said it has added 150 additional high-performance propellers to the replacement program, including aluminum and carbon-fiber models designed to boost efficiency and durability.
Focusing on General Aviation
Hartzell said the program combines STC propellers as well as aftermarket variants and is part of its plan to strengthen support of general aviation customers, which includes partnerships with the Recreational Aviation Foundation and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.
The company’s goals include offering pilots more choices at lower prices when upgrading their aircraft. Hartzell also sells its propellers with warranties through the first overhaul.
Finding compatible replacement propellers for your aircraft has also become easier with Hartzell’s new search tool that lets buyers check compatibility based on aircraft type, model year, engine, and even national certification authority.
“The Top Prop conversion program continues to evolve based on feedback from the aircraft owners and operators we have worked with for decades,” said Hartzell Propeller president JJ Frigge. “By enhancing the portfolio with more than 150 additional propeller models and improving pricing across the lineup, we have made it easier than ever for pilots to upgrade to Hartzell performance, backed by an industry-leading warranty through first overhaul.”
Cost Savings
Hartzell said the program has already lowered the cost of certain propeller upgrades, including price reductions of about 26 percent on four-blade replacements for Cirrus aircraft, 35 percent cuts for three-and four-blade type certified props for Beechcraft King Airs, and 21 percent reductions for three-, four- and five-blade props for Air Tractor models.
Earlier Top Prop upgrades of note included Polaris propellers for Diamond aircraft and Voyager propellers for Cessna 180s and 185s. Hartzell said more information will be available during aviation events including the Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo (April 14-19) and AERO Friedrichshafen (April 22-25).