In-Flight Adjustable Props

Over the years as the light aircraft industry has progressed, and aircraft have become more sophisticated, GSC Systems has recognized that pilots were looking for alternatives to the standard ground-adjustable propellers.

To meet this challenge, in 1993, GSC developed an in-flight, cockpit-controlled, mechanically adjustable propeller. The GTA, as it is called, is the result of many years of engineering and is a reliable, safe and solid performer.

The GTA propeller is produced and assembled right in our own facility and all components are made under strict quality control. It uses a vernier control cable from the cockpit which is calibrated to give one degree of pitch change for each revolution of the control knob. The vernier is linked to a push rod which activates a cam system inside the GTA hub. The cam then turns the blades for a full 18 degrees of pitch adjustment. This gives the propeller the reliability of a totally mechanical system. The GTA does require a hollow shaft-type gearbox to accommodate the push rod.

The GTA has a safety feature which will always return the blades to the fine pitch stop if the need should arise. A dual spring action applies pressure on the cam and hence the blades and fine pitch can be attained quickly by depressing the center of the vernier control.

The GTA propeller is available in two different blade designs:

Response on the GTA has been extremely positive. Pilots are raving about the improved performances they are getting out of their aircraft. We hear that cruise speeds increase by an average 15 MPH. Take-off and climb out also are considerably better. Pilots on floats claim that time to get off water is noticeably decreased.

The competitive price of the GTA propeller makes it an attractive addition to any aircraft and to pilots looking to get the most out of their light aircraft.