Prop Ground Clearence

I have often wondered but have never asked about prop tip clearence. I have always made sure I had plenty when I built an airplane and didn't worry about it. Now I am converting an airplane to a 4 stroke and find I need new landing gear or a four blade prop. Sitting at rest the prop clears the gorund by about half an inch. I could shorten the tail wheel but I like the take-off characteristics with the current set-up. Please offer any advice or theories regarding this subject.

Z --

I posed a similar question a while back, and Scott Reise had a practical answer. Put the plane on carpet, and if the prop clears the back of your hand laid on the carpet, you are OK. I suggest doing this test while the engine is not running.

I don't have much clearance on my grass fields here in Michigan. A lot of my props have green stain covering a couple of inches on each prop tip. Currell

Good point Larry. It would fill the house with exaust. Scott