DLE 55 Sheared Prop Bolts

Started up the engine for the first in ages with new prop fitted last time out. After starting I noticed the spinner was "wobbling". Removed it to find two out of four bolts have sheared flush with the drive hub. I need to get these devils out and no, I don't have small stud extractors. Options?

Will replace all bolts with "genuine" hi-tensile bolts next time round.

I have some extractors `Phil, don't know if they are small enough, what size are the sheared bolts?

Phil Ford wrote: Started up the engine for the first in ages with new prop fitted last time out. After starting I noticed the spinner was "wobbling". Removed it to find two out of four bolts have sheared flush with the drive hub. I need to get these devils out and no, I don't have small stud extractors. Options?

Will replace all bolts with "genuine" hi-tensile bolts next time round.

Hi Phil

I assume the new prop you fitted last time out was a wooden one? With wood props it's always worth checking bolt tightness if the engine hasn't been run for a while, as the hub can compress over time, which will loosen the bolts, this is even more likely to happen with a new prop. Then if the bolts are loose, they will eventually shear!

Yes Jon :blush: :oops: Realised that when I was on my hands n knees in the grass, cussing. Have had the props become loose on the OS engines too but it's more obvious on them as they are just nuts. I should've rechecked the DLE bolts beforehand. Of course when I wound up the power metal shears given the chance.

Paying the price now with downtime.

DavidTappin wrote: I have some extractors `Phil, don't know if they are small enough, what size are the sheared bolts?

They are 5mm David.

OK Phil, I have a small enough extractor for that if you can't find anyone who lives a bit nearer. I'd be surprised if Peter W hasn't got one and you'll be with him tomorrow won't you? Kevin is another likely extractor owner a bit nearer to you.

Thanks David, I will bear that in mind. Kevin, I believe is away on holiday.

I may try a tiny blob of epoxy on the bolt and a piece of 2mm control rod. hoping I can get at least the bolts proud of the prop driver to get a grip on. The bolts use to spin in easily enough just with fingers. Worth a try, last option drilling.

What Sometimes Works Phil is drilling as big a hole as possible in the sheared bolt and epoxying a well fitting rod in the hole and then try winding it out.

Simon O wrote: What Sometimes Works Phil is drilling as big a hole as possible in the sheared bolt and epoxying a well fitting rod in the hole and then try winding it out.

Simon have moved your post from Shed Club? to DLE55 thread. I was getting confused momentarily. :lol:

That is my plan but without drilling first. Then if it don't work then the drill method. Then if that don't work then it's an engineering job.

Phil, I have some easyouts and small dremel drills, I should be able to out your sheared bolts if you can get the model to me!