Folding Pusher Prop 101

[@vincenthenriod5867]

Almost every time that I'm looking for an answer, I find it on your channel, thank you !

[@jedwoodhouse5469]

Started thinking about folding props after nearly ripping out the motor mount through the back of my new Rambler RS during a nice, smooth landing. As you say, finding out where to start with them is difficult, websites seem to assume you know what you need. Your video told me exactly what I needed to know (as usual), bits ordered and hub spacer printed. By the way, I've created a Cura slicer profile that drives an Ender V2 at 150mm/sec. Prints your hub spacer in 12 minutes. Happy to share. Thanks Lee 👍

[@rancorbob]

Thank you for your contribution to the hobby you're an inspiration and an amazing source of knowledge. When I can I'd like to support you on patreon but for now I thought I would tell you how much I appreciate you. Clear skies friend

[@foamyflightmaster9385]

Thanks for another useful video, not much info in the wild on folding props, so your work has saved me both time and money. Great job..

[@robertgoldbornatyout]

Thanks Lee, Great stuff! Another excellent video.👍👍👍

[@fkfontaine]

Thank you so much for making this video. I just went through the same process building my S1100 Harrier wing. Twin motors (I'm really hoping for counter rotating props) and I can't find a CCW folding prop for the life of me!!

[@Nebul3r]

best channel on the internet for rc enthusiasts, learnt so much from you and learning more, im trying to find a suitable folding propeller system for my new build a Sonicmodel ar wing 900mm, bought a Sunnysky x2216-7 1400kv motor but still a bit confused because the clip and prop have different sizes to choose from

[@kamdozer]

Right on time for my C1 chaser build. Did fight with same issues and Mayatech prop holders. Thanks a lot for the info!

[@NoAgendaFPV]

Just turn on ESC braking and the prop should wind mill out of the way to not snap on landing. Having flown wings for a little over 2 years now I think i have only broken maybe 2 props. This video was a good explanation of folding pushers though, thank you for taking the time to explain it all.

[@MCsCreations]

Yeah, I know about that... But it's not easy to find programming boards for most escs... 😕

[@MCsCreations]

@James Smith How?

[@SandroFPV]

Because there is less airflow directly behind the wing? So the prop will stay in that position?

[@NoAgendaFPV]

@@SandroFPV yes, when the prop is up and down the wind will push it to a horizontal position where the wind won't hit it, as much, and it will stay there

[@wsc112782]

@@MCsCreations All of my planes with flight controllers get BLHeli32 ESCs, that way I can set the brake with no programming board, TX programming, etc. For planes without FCs, I standardized on the HobbyKing YEP ESCs, so I just need one programmer to adjust them.

[@51im]

If you use gemfan keep an eye out for stress fractures near the root. I've had them snap in mid flight on a 1000kv motor.

[@kevalinopicks5555]

Thanks, Lee for another very informative video. Still scratch my head with prop directions etc.!

[@Painless360]

Worth a quick tip on it?

[@kevalinopicks5555]

Painless360 Absolutely, Lee! When I wrote the comment I hadn’t checked to see if you’d done one but presumed you had. It would be great to have something to refer back to. Thank you.

[@ndcapper]

Great video. Problem is I can't find that aeronaut 38mm hub in the US

[@jimkehoe6495]

I'M GOING TO TRY AND 3D PRINT A HUB. I'LL SHARE IT IF IT WORKS OUT WELL. GREAT JOB MY FRIEND. THANKS FOR DOING THE GUESS WORK AND TESTING.

[@beefybeef1326]

Did it work out well?. I was thinking of doing the same

[@zagiman4307]

Hi you can get an insert or collect to go into the centre hub of folding prop as they usually come with spinners or can be brought separately for smaller diameter motor shafts I find electricwingman models good for prop spinners and collects

[@nenadstojadinovic8326]

Thanks for the video, Lee. I have a Talon with a huge propeller - it is not a glider and does not need a folding propeller in the air. As you said yourself, landing is a crap shoot because with any speed and with a blade down, the odds are that you will rip off the engine mount. Full size aircraft 'bump' the propeller around with the starter, and that may be a good solution here. Except that BLDC motors do not have a starter, and always seem to start with a bang. What do you think, seen anything anywhere that would solve this problem?

[@Painless360]

I've not. Let me know if you find something... best of luck!

[@robertobezossanchez-horner9161]

Excellent video and detailed explanations, it has totally helped me to solve the problem I had with the folding of the propellers!!!. I've been using the easystar II cone on a flying wing for years, but the aero naut blades don't fit it and that's why this design is ideal. I have a question, see if you can help me. I see that for the folding of the propeller, it is enough with the speed of the model when landing, but what would be the optimal way to put a rubber band so that the propeller is always collected when it is stopped? Again thank you very much for the contribution to the community. Greetings!!!

[@Painless360]

You need to make sure that the blades are not too tight. With correct tension and the ESC brake set, the blades will be pushed back by the airflow automatically... best of luck

[@robertobezossanchez-horner9161]

@@Painless360 Perfect, I will try with the brake on the ESC as I have always thought it consumed more energy unnecessarily, but for this case maybe it is better because I use the air friction with the propeller to keep it folded and improves aerodynamics. Thank you very much! Best wishes for all to go well!!!

[@richardcoggins739]

Thanks for the great video lee and all your hard work that went into gathering this information and providing it to us. I ordered all the parts you recommended and downloaded the print file so now I'm looking forward to giving them a try on my Dart XL.

[@TakeItToTheGround]

You forgot just one thing that brought my use of foldng props on wings to a halt. I use a racestar quad motor 2508 1275 kv on a HD wing,. However quad motors have short shafts so it was too short to pass through the hub and tighten the nut down enough to reach the nylon.

[@junkthe]

Any Video about pusher props for brushless 2221 an smaller also ?

[@mickelson8332]

It may be a couple years old Lee but yet again you have given me the answer I needed. I have trashed 3 props and snapped the motor mount twice now on my Dart XLe. Was looking for the best option for a folding prop and you popped up with the answer. Ordered from 3dxr, and will print your design from Tinkercad, what more could I ask for. Thanks again. Patreon Mick Elson

[@Painless360]

Glad to hear that you are sorted. Thanks for being a Patreon! 👍👍

[@arnerrvik7586]

My first folding prop completely pulverized the back of my FT Spear, and I felt... Pretty stupid:-) Always useful. Thanks!

[@Painless360]

It's easy to get this all wrong.. why is it do tricky! :D

[@freefallnfoamy6764]

Excellent info. I'm going through the same problem a year later. Keep breaking props or ripping the motor mounts off my ZOHD. Is the 3D printed plastic not strong enough to do the entire mount? That would be a nice solution.

[@CrystalliteKK]

Thanks for the video, really appreciate for the step by step guide.. I just wanted to know do foldable props are also available for Engines...?

[@Painless360]

Not sure I understand the question... engines?

[@CrystalliteKK]

@@Painless360 I meant to say is that, are foldable propellers also available for RC Engines? Like for 10cc or 15cc. I looked through the internet but had no success.

[@Painless360]

Ah, I see! The design of props is different as things like glow and IC motors subject them to different stresses compared to electric motors. I've not seen a spinner for non electric but I only fly electric here. I'd suggest that you message a seller of folding props and ask them the question... best of luck

[@CrystalliteKK]

@@Painless360 Thank you so much for your answer and also for the support that you would ask one of the suppliers 😊. Your response made my day..

[@heggy_fpv]

thanks a lot, never managed to buy all the matching pieces for the folding props.

[@akar68924]

Hey I have a question. Im looking all over but im finding no help im just not sure what hub to use on my aeronaut 12 x 6.5 prop.

[@Painless360]

All I found out is in here. I'd expect you'll need an Areonaut hub with the right root etc... Best of luck!

[@egtreadway4232]

I just came across this video and thanks it's a great help, I've just build my first folding prop for my ar wing pro but haven't flown it yet I'm just not sure that prop is setup proper. I've been flying this wing with a apc 8060 propeller with motor turning ccw standing a rear of plane with this folding prop I had to reverse motor to cw direction to get any thrust. Does this seem normal to you? Thanks again

[@Painless360]

Possibly. See kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpSto6duoK6ro6M

[@narkmallingerugardentool6217]

Centrifugal force it won't overextend into the wing

[@lloydprunier4415]

It would be neat to see smoke patterns from the different props. I guess there is not much thrust from the middle of any prop due to blockage in that center area?

[@Painless360]

I'm thinking of a video comparing a few 9x5 props (including a folder) to see what the impact on efficiency and wattage is..

[@jbarboxa]

Is nice to see the face behind the voice, great job!

[@Painless360]

Thanks for the comment, I've been appearing in videos since the 6th August 2018. Happy flying!

[@msmolly3082]

Very instructive! Going to need to get 3D printer soon.

[@big5astra]

Really great video on folding props. Personally, I have flown quite a lot of delta wing type pusher jets (all scratch built) and I have never broken a prop on normal landing. Have also flown quite a few 'normal' winged planes (both pusher and tractor pull) that were belly landing and again, never broken a prop. Obviously others could have had a different experience, but there you go...

[@Painless360]

Sadly, I can't say the same. Flying with a buddy yesterday saw one of his wings have the prop snapped off on a landing and that was the end of the day for that model as he didn't have spares.. It happens..

[@DeadlyDiddly]

Really interested in this Lee. 😁👍🏼👍🏼 I want one to put on a 1100mm wing.

[@MCsCreations]

Awesome topic, Lee!!! The props really look great! BTW, I need to search about pushers... What's the correct motor direction, the correct props and so on. But I already know where I'm going to find it. 😊

[@Matt-re8bt]

Funny. I went through this exact pain (wanting to replace a 9x4.5 pusher with a foldable) about a month ago. I feel your pain.

[@Painless360]

Isn't it odd that in the modern hobby and the explosion of wings in the models available that this isn't something that has been vastly simplified?

[@StefanNaewe]

Excellent! Exactly the info I was looking for. Thanks!

[@heggy_fpv]

I tried printing the insert, but the size was a bit off, so it did not fit the blades. Do you have any tips on printing with exact measures?

[@alanjones4747]

Excellent, might look at getting a setup for one of my Planes. Have you got a video for a puller setup. Cheers

[@Painless360]

Pullers are easy compared to pushers. Check out the vendors..

[@alanjones4747]

Thanks

[@alibozyilan]

Hi! I was thinking to use these props in a helicopter that Im designing for a competition here in my country, are there any things that I should be worried about? Thanks

[@Painless360]

Not sure, I've not used them like that. Best of luck with the project!

[@Puddercat1]

@Painless360 do you feel that reverse props are necessary for pusher configuration or is a tractor configuration fine?

[@Painless360]

I use what I can get. Modern locking nuts stop props from coming loose..

[@blackterminal]

Thanks for this

[@andrewklug4845]

Terrific review! I am building a dual prop plane with motors under each wing and would like to use folding props. I have not been able to find a right and left counter rotating set. Do you know where I could get a set?

[@Painless360]

I've not seen them but if anybody has them in stock - it'll be 3DXR.... Best of luck!

[@johnl7878]

I am looking for a folding prop for the new AR wing 1000. Spec is 8x5. Could you recommend the parts for this config as I believe in your videos you probably already have an optimal solution for this. Thanks!

[@Painless360]

I'd use the Aero Naut stuff. 38mm hub and 8x5 blades. Best of luck!

[@steinne]

Fantastic video.........

[@UMMMN-t4m]

Hello what 3d printer software would you recommend

[@Painless360]

I use Sketchup for design and cura for slicing... Happy flying!

[@JakeBullit123]

Great video. Any idea what parts would fit the stock motor on the parrot disco. As the supplied one is very poor and I think continues to poor image quality.

[@Painless360]

Next time I get mine out I'll have a look - that comes with a stock folder as I recall..

[@JakeBullit123]

@@Painless360 thanks Lee, yes it does. Much appreciated.

[@Zeno2Day]

Very informative, ty

[@08halit]

nice info. uppdate on my tarot 960. should i buy 6 pieces of T-motor 3520-14 300kv and 18 inch same props for 230 eur,, is it worth it (used parts)

[@fpvwing]

Can folding props run as fast as a normal prop?

[@Painless360]

They usually have a maximum rpm, should be listed in the specs... Happy flying

[@robtomben]

Is it still necessary to get props in the "pusher" configuration where the printed info on the prop faces forward? These seem to be harder to find. Can you reverse the props without inefficiency?

[@Painless360]

These are regular spinner props, just mounted on the rear.. Happy flying!

[@robtomben]

@@Painless360 Thank you for all your help.

[@AnasSuhaimi]

Hi Lee! How do you balance folding prop?

[@Painless360]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoSmi3qmZdd-jMk may help :D Don't forget you can support the channel and time I spend helping others - links in description..

[@AnasSuhaimi]

@@Painless360 Oh, sure. Been wanting to. Will do.

[@leelaor6201]

It's interesting to learn from you!... thanks!

[@BlinkFPV]

Had the same "issue" nearly 2 years ago, nothing online, that's way great!

[@Painless360]

Thanks! It’s bonkers that it’s still so tricky isn’t it!

[@itsallaboutthekarma5881]

i cant find the Mayatech inserts on your thingiverse and you share the link

[@Painless360]

They are on there - happy flying!

[@cenabitednbfpv587]

Needed these soo bad ty!!

[@marinehm]

Cool, thanks. I don’t fly wings but, might have to try one.

[@TheZach78]

Can u help me lee. I hooked up 1s brushed esc with my taranis. And 8520 brushed motor. But when i give the throttle, motor starts at around 10% throttle and motor stops at around 55% throttle. Can u tell me why is that ? I hv built a 50 gm rc plane.

[@Painless360]

I have not done a lot with brushed speed controllers. The only thing that I can think of is to run an ESC calibration. Best of luck!

[@TheZach78]

@@Painless360 thnks for reply lee. I hv done calibration but no success. If i run motor without props it runs fine. But with prop. Oit stops at half throttle. Plz think of something, u r genius. :)

[@amisoftau2659]

@@TheZach78 Motor timing? Are you able to run the ESC configuration for the ESC's? If not that, might check that enough current can get to the motors. If it's a new Taranis, make sure you have run the radio calibration.

[@TheZach78]

@@amisoftau2659 hi. That's small 3A generic wav for brush motor. It runs good without prop. But when I put the 6x3 prop on brushed 8520 motor along with gear. Motors shuts down at half throttle. U r right motor draws more current because of prop.

[@TheZach78]

@@amisoftau2659 I don't know why seller sold this combo. My taranis works fine with my head. I built using six dji phantom 3 standard motors.

[@jdbulciolu]

I used folding Graupner on gliders 20 years ago ....

[@colddash5598]

Omg, you said "I" at the end listing playlists and things....You used to say "we" and I always meant to ask on a fresher video Who? because I only saw you. Lol. Was any of this on purpose or am I reading to much into it?

[@Painless360]

'We' meant me, my mates and you the viewer. As most of the content is me I changed it to avoid confusion..

[@MeshJedi]

Why would you want to use bolts to screen on props on a plane like on a quad instead of a collett adapter ? collett is much better for planes and no need to add stuff to make the holes smaller diameter. In the case of my ZOHD dart the prop has a (non standard) screw so you just screw on the whole prop. then.. sure ok.. but on that you don't break the prop anyway since it has protection. but for bigger propers like these I'd definitely use a collet.

[@maxun1]

One key part is the balance of the prop, you need to balance the hub and the prop, otherwise the vibration will be terrible.

[@Painless360]

Spot on. See my video on balancing props for FPV that talks about exactly that. Happy flying

[@adamkelly6264]

oh man, I went through this same pain a year ago! For anyone in Australia, Peter from www.flyelectric.com/ was super helpful and was able to advise me on all the bits and pieces I needed to put together my prop. Hopefully now wings are becoming more popular and with TBS speccing a folding prop on the Caipirinha 2 there will be more commercial push to make this easier. I wish this video had been made a year ago Lee!

[@yurivideos2671]

You could probably print the whole propeller hub on the 3d printer, not just the blocking plate.

[@Painless360]

Interesting idea, but I doubt it would be strong enough... Happy flying

[@sleepingbearffg5008]

💪💪👊👊 Thanks again 😂

[@tabdougherty8549]

Well dang it ! This vid is exactly 2 weeks late for me my stuff is on its way and I do not feel very confident now. LOL

[@Painless360]

You should have dropped me a line ;) Hope it helps when all the parts arrive.. Happy flying!

[@Fluburtur]

I dont think folding props can over extend by much, the centrifugical force keeps the pretty much perfectly out. Guess it could be an issue on models with very tight tolerances.

[@Painless360]

Remember that it’s not just the centrifugal force keeping the blade in position - it’s being forced forwards as it produces thrust too..

[@Styrola]

I made a FPV trond KFM wing with a folding prop. The problem I had with the propeller was the blades crossing the center when the blades were folded backwards. That caused the prop not fold out and everything to shake caused by unbalance. There was no problem with the propeller "over folding". So just some plastic cut from a plastic box to prevent the blades from crossing when gliding did fix my problems.

[@timmylassie6763]

your challenge is easy compared to mine... i am designing a VTOL "kit" for a flying wing which basically connects a quadcopter to it - very simple description. what i want to do is let the quad props streamline when not being used which means i need props that are 90 deg rotated from yours. even a more simple description is i want to have quad props with normal center mounts that are mechanically like a dji mavic prop in the way they fold. i am not sure the parts for this are available anywhere.... i may have to print the entire hubs but the petg filament may not be strong enough. any ideas? timmy

[@blakey271able]

It's all madness I'm fed up of looking for folding props great video though

[@Painless360]

Vendors could definatley do more to make it easier bit with the detail in this video (and a 3D printer!) I can always get the prop made that I need.. Happy flying