WW1 Propeller

[Albert Ching]

I have a wooden propeller that I have had in storage for over 50 years and I decided to refinish it to install a clock in the hub. This propeller has no metal flanges remaining in the hub. When I removed the finish which was in very poor condition, I noticed the stamping on the hub which idenitfies it as being manufactured by Lang and was used with the Liberty L-12 400 HP engine.

The propeller is in excellent condition including the brass tips but the finish has been revoved and I have installed a couple of mohagonay inserts in 2 small notches in the hub as the first step in the clock installation. The question is whether I should proceed or preserve it in its present configuration. If I were to apply a new finish, is there a suggested type to be used if the propeller is to be preseved in its unmodified condition. Any input on my dilemma would be appreciated.

Albert

[Dave]

The less you do to alter it the better, even at this point. If you haven't done anything structural to the hub I wouldn't do anything else at this point. As for finish now, I think the best bet for display purposes is to simply apply several coats of linseed oil, allowing even a few weeks in between coats to allow it to cure and harden.

[Albert Ching]

Thanks, Dave, for your input. I wil use linseed oil as a finish. If I decide to mount a clock in the hub I will use removeable wood fillers and preserve the stampings on the hub.
Albert