prop pitch

[NINJAZX7]

i have a xtra easy, with an MDS .40 fs pro, i have gotten the hang of flying, and would like to go a little faster with my plane, without changing the engine. i havent found any info on prop pitch etc..
heres my question. what would be more effective longer prop or a different pitch? what does the pitch do?
i have a 10x6 prop on it now, the manual (MDS) says i could go to a 11x6. what would be my best choice?

also looking at 2 other planes from hanger 9, aresti .40, and the advance .40 vrtf. does anyone have either of the planes? what are their characteristic's?

[Dave Robelen]

Hi Ninjazx7,
Generally the prop pitch is what controls the maximum speed of the model within the limits of the engines power. More diameter gives a better low speed pull for climbing, while more pitch increases the speed in level flight. A very useful manuever to check these things is to pull a large loop at full throttle. If the engine slows on the climb and speeds up on the dive you already have too much prop. You should be able to run at least a 7" pitch but you will need to check with a tachometer and this looping manuever to be sure the engine is not overloaded. If you need more revs with a higher pitch, drop to a smaller dimeter prop. Also, changing to a different brand of prop usually makes a difference since the various companies calculate the pitch differently.
Good luck, Dave Robelen