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Constant Speed Prop Basics

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Always consult your aircraft's POH for specific constant-speed propeller operating procedures, especially regarding power settings, and delay control adjustments until a safe altitude after takeoff.
  • Follow the correct sequence for power adjustments: to reduce power, pull the throttle back then the prop; to increase power, push the prop forward then the throttle.
  • Discard outdated practices such as cycling the prop three times (once is usually sufficient) and worrying about flying "over square," as these are generally not applicable to modern engines.
  • Before landing, move the prop lever to the full forward position to ensure maximum climb performance is available for a potential go-around.
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Chances are you’ve come across descriptions of how constant-speed propellers work, oh, about a thousand times since your piloting days began. Instead of rehashing how they operate, let’s talk about tips you can use to get the most out of your constant-speed prop.

The first tip is offered with safety in mind: After you push the throttle full forward, gather momentum on the runway and lift off, don’t touch the throttle (black knob), propeller (blue knob) or mixture (red knob) until you’ve reached a safe altitude. After all, if something is going to break, it might do so because you moved one of these levers. It’s best to gain altitude before adjusting power settings.

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