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<DIV>I would like to urge that there not be an automatic condemnation of any
prop or prop engine combination. </DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>One of the very first things we learn in this hobby is that "PROPS CAN
FAIL". There have been several reports lately of 3 blades failing ( including
mine ), but there have also been some 2 blade failures that haven't been
reported. Not saying that there is a cover up or anything, but that failures
have been by individuals that realize this can happen and take a rational
approach to the issue rather than a knee-jerk reaction. </DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>When mine failed, one of the first questions I got was " Well I quess you
won't be using three blades anymore?" My answer, " Yes I will. If it works with
the plane/ engine combination, there will be a three blade on there".</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>To me, the most important thing about these reports is that they should be
reminders that these things can and do happen. Everyone of us has at one time or
another subjected ourselves to the danger zone of the prop arch. Some of
us repeatedly violate this rule of physics. Take these reports as reminders
that we need to be vigilant about the care of our props and our own safety
around them.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Robert Gainey</DIV></FONT></BODY></HTML>