I am strongly considering using a fixed pitch Catto prop on my IO-540K (300hp) engine for my Skybolt. Catto has done some engineering and the numbers come out as: @2,800 rpm, 1,000 lbs thrust at 60-100mph. It is manufactured with wood/glass composite, 74 inch, 3 blade and should come in 20 lbs lighter than a Hartzel CS. The price is 1/4 of what a hartzell cost. So, I am trying to weigh the pros v. cons. I am down to the point that I need to place the order very soon.
I heard from the gentlemen with the Maroon and white Skybolt at KOSH this year that he is using the Catto prop and loves it.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
And, yes, I know that I will not produce with a FP prop that neat sound of the prop cycling doing manuevers that you hear on CS props.
