Many kit instructions specify how to assemble planes so that the propellers can spin. Is there really any point in doing that. I just did that for my ov-10 (I know, wrong forum) and am just imagining the bit that holds it together from behind dropping off because it’s not secure enough. While that is beside the point in a way, it did make me think - do I really need these propellers to spin for any reason?
That question could be applied to many movable parts:
Wheels?
Gun turrets?
Rudder surfaces?
Also applicable to other types of models …
Now I want to start a campaign for stick and tissue planes.
A friend of mine built the Guillows FW190. He found a paint scheme he liked, may have been one of those computer skins and printed it on the tissue paper. Once installed it was just barely translucent so you could just see the balsa framing. Looks fantastic and it is converted into a RC flyer.
It’s the only reason I can think of - it also gave new life to my old hair-drier, seeing it became redundant 20+ years ago ![]()
Aha!
The extremely efficient low cost hairdo.
The savings on hair maintenance can be used for other expenses,
maybe a new kit or tools …
Hello!
Many years ago I’ve built a paper Spitfire. I didn’t think ahead and so the prop was fixed in place. I put in on a dresser and proudly showed it to my dad. Without thinking much he tried to energetically spin the prop - and that sent my spitfire down in a picturesqe maneuver! Since then I figure having the prop spin just makes your model a little less prone to damage. Not because my pops is playing around with them all the time - sometimes you just inadvertently touch the prop, or a helicopter rotor, for that manner and if it’s glued in place id doesn’t have any way to react, so it’s more prone to breaking.
In case of helicopter rotors - I like to have the main rotor removable - that makes the model so much more “moveable” - it’s just easier to pack the fuselage separately and the rotor separately. Again having the tail rotor moveable saves it from damage.
Have a nice day!
Paweł
Seconded.
Over the years I’ve built models with and without spinning props. Most of the fixed props usually broke, often the one pointed closest to up as they seem the most prone to getting a knock. The spinning props can move with the knocks and survive!
Same with helicopter rotors. Where possible I’ll replace the rotors axle with a brass rod or tube for added strength and reduce the friction.
Whenever possible, I like to keep things movable/rotatable for the photo op. Never know when I might need to change an angle.
—mike ![]()
I’d prefer they spin for all the reasons mentioned here, but in practice I end up gluing them so they sit right. In my experience when they’re not glued, they tend to fall or sag a bit which creates an uneven gap between the spinner back plate and the front of the fuselage…and that bugs me more than anything.
Don’t forget BluTak, PVA (White Glue), Microscale Micro Krystal Klear, Microscale Micro LiquiTape can also be used for temporary positioning of parts.
—mike ![]()
What Mike said, it only takes a touch of PVA to prevent any sag yet allows the prop to displace under a fairly clumsy knock without breaking the blades.
Great tip! Thanks.


