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Ground clearance for 74” prop on -14

Av8rRob

Well Known Member
Calibrated a fuel tank today and thought I would take a pic for those who ask about ground clearance in level attitude. This is with a 74” prop.
 

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74” prop

Thanks for taking the time to get some measurements Rob. I’ve asked for feedback from various people and haven’t really received any firm feedback. I ordered a 74” earlier this year. Should getting it soon. :)
 
I'm putting on my Hartzell this week to start the cowl trimming ;ill feed back on what clearance i have. I'm guessing exactly the same as you
 
I've been telling people for years that this is not an issue for an RV-8. Thanks.

Chris

Van's does recommend both the 72" and 74" props for the RV-8. And has for as long as I can remember.

From the current website:

Propeller size note:

  • The 74" blade diameter propellers are applicable to all "A" model RVs plus the RV-8.

  • The 72" blade diameter propellers are recommended for all tailwheel aircraft (except the RV-8 as noted above) to ensure adaquate ground clearance for those models.
 
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When you are considering ground clearance not only are you looking at full weight stationary sitting on the ground but deflection on a hard landing. It would be nice to know what Vans "deflectomiter" showed during the drop tests. The videos are good to see. One tough airplane.

RV 14 Drop test video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbFMogBNUa0
 
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