General Aviation Modifications, Inc. (GAMI) and Tornado Alley Turbo (TAT) revealed they have received FAA STC approval for the installation of the new, composite, 3-blade, McCauley “Carbon Black Mac” propeller on several models of Beechcraft Bonanzas, including S35, V35, V35A, V35B, F33A, C33A, E33A, G33, 36, A36, G36, A36TC and B36TC equipped with both normally aspirated and turbonormalized IO-520 and IO-550 powerplants.
The new composite propeller is constructed of carbon fiber over a structural foam core with an embedded, electro-formed nickel leading edge for enhanced durability, according to company officials.
A new, lightweight hub design complements the scimitar-shaped prop blades, resulting in a lightweight, yet strong design capable of operation at up to 350 hp, officials add.
Coming in at 51.3 pounds, the “Carbon Black Mac” prop and spinner combination is up to 29 pounds lighter than comparable models approved for these Bonanza models.
“The outstanding performance in climb and cruise along with the prop’s light weight will surely make this a popular choice amongst A36 and G36 owners” said George Braly, chief of engineering for GAMI and TAT.
“What’s even more remarkable is the smoothness of the operation with this propeller,” said John Whitehead, a long-time Bonanza owner following a recent test flight. “I could not believe the smoothness from the start up through all phases of operation. It must be the combination of the light weight with the composite materials, but it’s a real difference that’s so nice to fly behind.”
Currently approved for non-deiced and electrically deiced versions, GAMI and TAT will be doing some additional testing on TKS equipped versions in the near future, company officials noted.
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