Is the Hartzell Propeller Upgrade Worth It? Performance Test Results on Cessna 182! [Before & After]

[@1hornet1]

I've never understood spending that much money to gain only a few knots or a few seconds. I would spend the money on something more sensible. Like a boat! LOL I'm just kidding. The plane looks great and I think I would be happy with your new numbers. Good job on the video!

[@Schmiiindy]

Haha unfortunately a lot of my upgrades are not my choice. It’s an old plane and parts NEED to be replaced. So I do a lot of research to choose the best option for when these changes are necessary. I don’t upgrade good parts just for fun to spend money either 😁

[@1hornet1]

@Schmiiindy Honestly, I think you are going to have no regrets in the long run. We got a new prop for our cheetah a few years back. It's fixed but we went with a cruise prop that was meant to be with our engine and the mods it has. We had a very similar performance change as yours but in the end, worth it! We are going faster at less rims and the plane just feels better. I hope you do something like a 6 month review after using your new prop for a while! Blue skies!

[@Maniac742]

That's why you do it at prop overhaul, when you're going to be dropping dough anyways. I wouldn't replace an airworthy prop.

[@Schmiiindy]

@@Maniac742exactly!!!!

[@StefBelgium]

Well, data with only one replicate is meaningless. This does not account for variability such as pilot (she s not a test pilot and not as rigorous as an actual test pilot or small change of weather conditions). Why working with pressure altitude rather than density altitude? Density altitude is what the plane and the engine are seeing. You may have same or similar temperature on the ground but higher deviation in altitude hence working with density altitude would make more sense. What was the OAT? Run 10 times the tests, include statistics, and then we ll discuss the potential benefits. It is well known that a 3-blade propeller provides better climb performance but should give slightly slower cruise speed and the other way around. As a scientist, data without replicates can not be trusted. You can even have different average values, but when you include the standard deviation for each mean, you could end up with no statistical difference.

[@markpalmer5311]

Mindy! Miss you tons, so good to see this upgrade, you’re awesome, nothing’s changed!

[@gasfiltered]

The cooling is because of the spinner. They play a huge role in shaping airflow through the cowl. The new spinner provides a much smoother path and "cleaner" airflow over the cylinders.

[@Schmiiindy]

Ah very interesting!!! I didn’t think about the spinner effect on cooling.

[@healerf18]

Yup, the spinner!

[@lukenflys24]

Congrats to Mojo! Looking good with 3 blades!

[@letsfly72x]

I went with the 3-blade prop on my Piper Arrow. I was happy to see your testing. Although two different platforms, it helps me understand the benefits of my 3-blade…besides the cool factor ✈️

[@healerf18]

Love the three blade prop and modern spinner look on the vintage 180 and 182's! I don't have personal experience, but some Alaska bush pilots say a three bladed prop can provide some braking effect when transitioning from cruise rpm to full rpm on approach to landing. Especially useful in short field work in tight spaces.

[@hlwade]

I love Mojo! Great work you two!

[@jackrolfson312]

That was fun to watch. Thank you for taking the time to take us along.

[@N412BE]

That was a nice simple test as others have said. The factors of additional weight, as well as maintenance costs must be factored in as well. The new prop and spinner sure do add to the “look” though; I’ll give you that.

[@markcomfort784]

Very interesting and made MoJo look even better

[@friedclutch97]

Great video! very fun to watch. Mojo looking like a beast

[@bobwollard9105]

That was a true pleasure to watch. 😊

[@nathanwildthorn6919]

Thanks, Schmiindy! That was pretty cool! 😃

[@reyesben]

Awesome video!

[@smacfe]

Very nice prop. I chose to stick with the 2 blade prop as it does offer a slightly faster cruise and overhauling it was about 1/4 the cost of the new upgrade.

[@nigelappleton2963]

Great show, always enjoy your channel.

[@SlickBaum]

Awesome vid as always, you two!! 🇺🇸🤙🏽

[@Schmiiindy]

Thanks Slick!!!!

[@hypnojdm]

That was really cool, you guys! Thanks!

[@CaptRD]

I liked the three-blade on the plane, but I agree with you in that the spinner is really eye catching over the original prop.

[@Sebastopolmark]

Very well done. What about fuel flow during climb and overall in cruise? ?? ???

[@granddad-mv5ef]

Very interesting! While listening to you speak, my mind kind of wandered back 56 years. My primary helicopter instructor sounded NOTHING like you. I can imagine you as a perfect CFI.

[@thomas4712]

I have had my 1957 Skylane for 38 years. I hope to pick it up yet this week from the avionics shop. It received (2) GI-275’s, a GNX-375, a GMA-375, (2) GNC-215’s and a new vertical compass. Next on my list is a prop so this video has been very informative. Let me know if and when you put some VG’s on your plane…….

[@Schmiiindy]

WOW you have had it for so long - that’s family!!! Great choice of upgrades. Enjoy!!!

[@skyepilotte11]

Thanks you guys...hope it's worth it for you. Looks really cool.

[@Dragonrc.]

⁠totally understand if I had to replace a prop, you did the best thing ever. But the video made it seem it was just adding something to bling out an old plane.

[@mikekilcoin4949]

What does the new 3 blade cost?

[@Docinaplane]

My understanding is that a two-blade prop gives you a higher cruise speed than a three-blade prop and that's why I stayed with that on my 200 hp Piper Arrow.

[@stevenadams2032]

Excellent job as test pilot schmiidy

[@rabh6746]

The new prop looks so good, the chrome spinner suits Mojo so well👌

[@DanFrederiksen]

This wouldn't by freak accident be sponsored by Hartzell? :)

[@harryagrotis326]

Of course it is but the data is the data By the way I don't even think they paid for the he prop. It's ok as long once again the data is the data

[@DanFrederiksen]

@@harryagrotis326 price might be part of the data too. and of course they didn't pay for the prop. I'm guessing it would be 10k+

[@RussClarkRocks]

@@DanFrederiksen I was thinking 15.

[@haydenblades9349]

No, surely not.

[@techno_viking2609]

If it's sponsored it has to be clearly declared otherwise it's against the law.

[@KevinSmithAviation]

Great job Mindy and Kevin. The new prop definitely makes MoJo look amazing. Thank you for the look into the upgrade. Safe skies 🇺🇸🛩️

[@jsorbieus]

Nice video, always great to see your work. How about cabin noise? Any affect there?

[@mrwest5552]

Schmiiindy ! ! You are looking prosperous, Happiest 2025 to you and yours.

[@craigheller9053]

Awesome job!

[@Bupkus68]

That is just such a pretty airplane - love it

[@whathasxgottodowithit3919.]

Great video thank you for posting. Dare I say your Nose Strut looks a little low? or just how it is on that model?

[@Schmiiindy]

Just how it is!! When we first got it 3 years ago, I made mechanics service it so many times and then even eventually had it fully rebuilt ($$$) only to tell me later that, that is just how this model in particular sits. It will not go any higher 😅

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

It's magnificent. And it's approximately 50% safer no doubt. I had a great time. Thanks 👶👍

[@bjornmclir5015]

Not sure if it was the camera, but on your first takeoff it looked like you had a fair amount of fore and aft play in your nose gear, might wanna check it out. Love the video I want a hartzell 3 blade prop for my 175 but there's nothing wrong with my original so can't justify the expense.👍🏻✈️

[@BrianGochnauer]

I prefer two blade props even though my plane is a three blade. I've always heard the three blade props are always slower than two blade props; the only reason to use them is to absorb more horsepower or ground clearance.

[@SMcda]

Fun video, what was the cost? The ramp picture is really better looking

[@eva905]

great looking plane

[@philipmcbride-pilotengineer]

Very nice upgrade. Looked smoother and increased stability, but hard to measure. Going to have a talk with Elon about this new test pilot.

[@Schmiiindy]

Put in a good word. Thank you. 😉

[@Fly_With_Henry]

Mojo looking good with the 3 blade! 👍🏼🤘🏻

[@Schmiiindy]

Thank you Henry!

[@todquarles1695]

Great video and great work as a test crew. Question and thought for you: Is that the same prop that Cessna is currently hanging on the Skylane? And, even though you didn't run a "before," I wonder if you would notice any difference in a go-around as you poured the coals to it.

[@Schmiiindy]

Cessna has 3 bladed McCauley on their new 182Ts. And great thought!! Admittedly I haven’t tried a go-around yet but next flight it is on my list now- I bet it feels different

[@Cavalier-lp8tr]

Is this a constant speed prop?

[@georgelevin6134]

Had one of these on a 210 I flew I found nothing to blow my horn over other than looking good. I’m also glad I didn’t have to pay for it.

[@dboss7239]

So did fuel consumption change? Obviously thrust increased, but so would airframe drag at slightly higher speeds... although if the prop is more efficient that may offset the higher speed drag.

[@Schmiiindy]

Great question! I have not noticed any changes in fuel flow but it is not something we specifically measured

[@Tannerxcsoaring]

Wow, pretty good change. We'd like to install one of those on our Pawnee, for towing gliders, mostly want quieter operation, and better climb rate. How much $?

[@matthewmiles3974]

The new prop looks awesome on Mojo! Hartzell has a reputation for making great products. I had a hard time deciding what to replace my 2-blade McCauley with on my 182L. I ultimately went with a 2-blade MT composite due to the weight reduction of about 12 pounds over the McCauley.

[@GregHopp]

That would also have been a fun video to watch had you done what test pilot/astronaut Mindy did.

[@matthewmiles3974]

@@GregHopp I would have loved to have made the same performance evaluation as what test pilot/astronaut Mindy did. However, I had the engine replaced at the same time as the propeller making a direct comparison impossible.

[@Thomas-g9o5d]

Love it!

[@azfan64]

Any noticeable change in sound/noise levels? Either ascending or @ cruise?

[@Schmiiindy]

It is marketed to be quieter, and maybe it technically is, but that is not something that I have personally noticed. It sounds the same to me.

[@Jerrylumdegaard]

Probably my favorite airplane on KZbin.

[@Schmiiindy]

Best compliment!

[@moopsmoore7691]

A couple questions Mindy. 1. What are the sizes of your wheels and tires all around, and what was the penalty in airspeed? 2. Your tail seems to sit a little lower than my 59' 182. Is that normal, or has it always been that way? Thanks for the video.

[@trumpetman8889]

Mindy is a badass pilot. I would feel safe flying with her any day ❤

[@Schmiiindy]

So kind. Thank you

[@grantpowers]

Nice plane 😎

[@MaxMueller47]

Two blade McCauley has very few AD's. Be interesting to see what the cost of ownership would be for a Hartzell.

[@Vin-j6l]

Mindy. Great. Thank you

[@randym7511]

Your take off with the new prop was right at one second sooner.

[@bourdon845]

Cool !!

[@murdoch9106]

I still feel shame for thinking Mojo was a boring choice, might be my favorite KZbin airplane now! Its so cool and since its a very old model its a true classic with modern touch ups! If I win the lottery one day after I buy 14 helicopters I'm getting one of these! :P Now, I'm gonna eat Carbonara and enjoy the video, fly safe! ;)

[@Schmiiindy]

Wow this is the best comment haha!!! Thank you. Old girls can have fun too 😂😂🤪

[@naglemonster679]

I like! Question? Why a three bladed prop, not a four bladed prop? And what happens to your old prop?

[@Schmiiindy]

There’s no 4 blade prop available for this model 😊 most small planes only have 2 or 3 blade options

[@naglemonster679]

Gotcha

[@soundtecked]

What about fuel economy?Did it go up or down

[@ddthompson42]

Had me right up until "extra 20 pounds." I need ALL my useful load LOL I'm looking into one of their 2-blade scimitar top-pros for my Cardinal, though!

[@harryagrotis326]

Love to watch your guys videos and haven't seen one for a while. May I ask was there a wait difference between the two props that had to be taken into consideration for a new weight and balance? Thanks

[@Schmiiindy]

The hartzell is +20 lbs. of course that has some to do with going from a 2 blade to 3 blade

[@jeremysikes5333]

Do you happen to still have the old spinner?

[@John-s7p1z]

How come they don't use their props on the ceiling fans in the hangar?

[@omarjohnson3411]

Any better fuel economy?

[@marcericdavis]

The wind has no effect on the climb test. Wind is air movement relative to the ground. You are not referencing teh ground during the climb test. It would matter if you were measuring climb over a 50ft obstacle, or using a GPS to measure air speed. But you are only measuring the change in altitude at a given air speed. No ground reference. Same is true of your speed tests since you are comparing TAS instead of GPS speeds. Other than that, Nice tests, and interesting to me and my 182A.

[@inspiredartphotos]

I wondered about!

[@inspiredartphotos]

Love the straight tail 182 and manual flaps. The early Cessnas had a lower glare shield which made the over the nose visibility superior. Beautiful airplane. What are the TBO’s for both props? Any AD notes?

[@marcericdavis]

@@inspiredartphotos There is a tail AD that requires inspection. Overall the AD are not too bad. The engine TBO is 1700 hours, but they regularly go a lot longer than that. Often 3000 or more.

[@inspiredartphotos]

@ I owned a 1963 Skyhawk with the Continental O300D. We got close to 2000 hours. We had it on Oil Analysis. At around 2000 hours we had some alarming readings. We then had the engine majored. The airplane is still flying and in current registration. The straight tail 182’s are a favorite of mine. I flew an early 180 a fair bit. I preferred the nose dragger in crosswinds and gusty conditions.

[@billquillin1952]

The big question is: Is the performance increase worth the cost?

[@mysticstarhf9265]

Good question. I'm also curious as to weight & rotational mass vs fuel burn and if that negates the slight performance increase.

[@bowzist]

isn't this the plane used in the new ROLEX ad? beautiful

[@Schmiiindy]

Haha a twin of this was, yes. But not mine 🥲

[@Jeff-m5x3j]

I would think that the better CHTs would improve engine life and eventually help pay for the prop in the long term based on engine maintenance and rebuild costs.

[@Schmiiindy]

That’s a great point. The CHTs are SO much more manageable now.

[@wb6anp]

How much more does the new prop weigh,and what effect on W&B. by your comments on the video sounds like a bit more nose heavy.

[@miloswanson9646]

Was mentioned in the video upon landing ( at 26:50 in the vid) that the new prop was 20# heavier

[@williambeatty7781]

It's hard to justify spending the $$$$ for so little improvement. With only doing one sample test it's hard to know if the improvements you found are real or not. Especially, how small they were. Testing of a period of time would be interesting to see. All the said, the new prop does look great !!

[@Schmiiindy]

Thank you!! But keep in mind, I am not advocating for you to take a perfectly good prop off and replace it with this. Of course that’s a lot of money for small improvements. But I needed a new prop, as planes do in their life, and why not get a great looking product AND some improvements! It’s a no brainer if you are due for prop ❤

[@scottstp7084]

I don’t understand buying a new prop and not going composite. My last purchase was a 3 blade’r, and the weight difference is felt at every phase of flight, not to mention the performance advantages too.

[@Schmiiindy]

3 Blade Composite was not available for my model. Otherwise I would have!

[@scottstp7084]

@ oh that’s too bad. Nice plane otherwise

[@slp1111]

should have Hartzel be your sponsor

[@ajborda]

Noticed the Wawa coffee cup.

[@jeffsheldon4096]

If I had known y’all were in Piqua? I’d have driven 45-50 minutes to say hello.

[@williamkennedy2069]

Yeah, but how much did it cost to get these improvements?

[@Schmiiindy]

The top prop is about 18K (in 2024) but remember that in aviation, you must replace parts when they are due… if you have a perfectly good prop, I suggest to keep it! But when you are due for another, I highly recommend to consider Hartzell as we have been SO happy with them and the prop for the last 7 months

[@GaryMCurran]

No longer a pilot (well, I can't get my medical renewed, I'll always be a pilot), I'm curious. Why did you switch from McCauley to Hartzell? It seems the McCauley 401 prop would have also fit the bill. Price, weight, performance (expected), or something else entirely?

[@Schmiiindy]

Hartzell had longer a TBO & marketed much of the advantages you see in this video. But mainly because they are so well known for their craftsmanship and have amazing products- constantly evolving and pushing for new products. Majority of the planes I sell have Hartzells and I’d say there’s good reason for it

[@GaryMCurran]

@@Schmiiindy thank you for the well thought out answer. I have no issue with either manufacturer, but it's been so long since I've flown, even if I did own an airplane, I wouldn't be up on the latest and greatest.

[@reubenrobertson7145]

Is this the same airplane as the AOPA giveaway ?

[@Schmiiindy]

No. They copied me. 😉

[@stuartferguson7947]

With the extra weight out front, how much did you loose in Usefully load?

[@Schmiiindy]

20 pounds

[@08turboSS]

Want a smaller Diam 3 blade to lessen prop strik possibilities.

[@paulg2132]

Mojo got a facelift and she looks beautiful!

[@Schmiiindy]

Thank you!

[@peterbenway6739]

Have you noticed a fuel consumption difference?

[@Schmiiindy]

I have not, no

[@hughmarloweverest1684]

Put some spats on that delightful looking Cessna for a little speed bump in all the criteria you tested, get back to us. Yes, get some flashy aluminum ones if possible.

[@garyvanremortel5218]

Did you test the thrust of that Big Ass hangar fan?

[@skycop3855]

Is it wrong to be in love with this 182?

[@edmoore3910]

What about gph???

[@bill-ne8kr]

Well, looks a little different but clearly, the performance difference is NOT worth the cost............ Think I will stay with my current configuration and spend the money on a trip to Vegas.................. Good video.

[@Schmiiindy]

I don’t think anyone should take off a perfectly good prop but ours was due to be removed so when you encounter that time, I would definitely consider a Hartzell prop! I’ve had it 7 months and am sooo happy with it.

[@Maniac742]

Supposedly, 3 bladed props are better in climb and 2 bladed props are better in cruise. Whether or not that's actually true has been back and forth in the aviation community for decades. One thing is for certain though. 3 bladed props are much sexier.

[@Schmiiindy]

100%!!!!

[@av8tore71]

I did it to my Mooney M20C

[@Schmiiindy]

Great choice

[@klindy_07]

Such an awesome experience with Hartzell!!!

[@boydw1]

Schmiindy won't go for the astronaut thing - there's no bourbon in space!

[@Schmiiindy]

We can be the first 🫡🥃

[@Vantage-o2d]

Is your nose gear ok??

[@randall6890]

Love your airplane videos!

[@justadreamin1004]

The big question - is cost worth the nominal increase in performance? -------

[@klindy_07]

The impact the prop has on keeping our CHT’s cooler during climb wasn’t nominal, but like Mindy said we don’t have cowl flaps. But that difference alone makes it completely worth it to us!

[@Schmiiindy]

I’ve replied to others the same that a prop IS a big investment. If your prop is good, I don’t think you’d be compelled to change it. But when you are due for a new prop, this should certainly be considered as we are so happy with our Hartzell after flying it for 7 months now.

[@aitutaki50]

Steve-O is jelly 😅

[@Tadrjbs]

Wow, I could hardly tell video was sponcered by McCauley.😂just kidding, both prop companies are great.

[@cyrussumner]

you left out m ax alt .and max speed

[@paulnieuwenhoven5842]

Looks fabulous

[@justinparker7795]

Sportsman!! Sportsman STOL Kit!! You won't believe what it does to that plane! SAFER ! Faster! ++++