Press Releases

Hartzell Propeller receives STC approval for its Top Prop kit conversion for Cessna R182, FR182, TR182 and T182 models

Piqua, Ohio – June 25, 2012. Hartzell Propeller Inc. has received an FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its new 3-blade Top Prop™ conversion kit for Cessna Skylane R182, FR182, TR182 and T182 (Lycoming O-540-J3C5D or O-540-L3C5D powered) models. These turbocharged and / or retractable Skylanes were last built in 1986 in both the USA and France. The new Top Prop kit improves performance, increasing the value and utility of these unique Skylane models.

Mike Trudeau, Top Prop’s program manager, said, “For owners of these popular Skylane models, this propeller conversion will breathe new life into their aircraft by noticeably improving take-off, climb and cruise performance.”

The 82-inch diameter, “blended” airfoil, Scimitar blades have successfully proven themselves in engineering flight tests. Compared to standard propeller models, the kit improves climb performance by 8.5%, and cruise performance by 2-4 knots or even more at altitude, and also enhances ramp appeal. In line with the latest FAA and international standards, the prop’s noise emissions are at a globally-accepted level of 77.5 dB(a).

Trudeau added, “As we grow our line of Top Prop products and continue to reach more customers, we further solidify our place as the world’s most reliable producer of propeller conversions. But our biggest achievement continues to be our delivery of outstanding customer service to our clients around the world.”

Available directly from Hartzell or through Hartzell’s Top Prop dealers, the 2012 list price for these kits, which include the new propeller, new polished, pointed aluminum spinner, and the STC, is $11,000. The new propeller carries the exclusive Hartzell Plus3 warranty, which delivers a full three years or 1,000 hours of coverage, and has a six-year/2400-hour TBO.

Hartzell Propeller is widely recognized as the leader in advanced propeller design and manufacturing technology. The company has developed the next generation of propellers based upon innovative “blended airfoil” technology and is manufacturing these blades using a combination of revolutionary machining centers and robotics; and with its new ASC-II™ composite technology, to provide mission-optimized performance for its customers.

Hartzell Propeller traces its beginnings in 1917 to a business relationship with Orville Wright and was founded on the principle of “Built on Honor” – a tradition that continues today.