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What must be done when lubricating a Hartzell propeller blade with grease to prevent damage?

  1. Lubricate from both fittings

  2. Remove one of the two zero fittings

  3. Apply oil instead of grease

  4. Use a specialized lubrication tool

The correct answer is: Remove one of the two zero fittings

When lubricating a Hartzell propeller blade with grease, it is crucial to remove one of the two zero fittings to prevent damage. Hartzell propellers utilize a dual lubrication system that allows for grease to be added through separate fittings on the blade. However, if both fittings are used simultaneously without removing one, there is a risk of over-filling the lubricant cavity. This can lead to excessive pressure and possibly damage the internal mechanisms of the propeller or lead to grease being forced out seals, which can contaminate the propeller assembly. Maintaining the correct lubrication prevents issues such as propeller imbalance or inefficient operation, which might occur from grease escaping or being improperly distributed. Therefore, removing one fitting ensures that only the necessary amount of grease is injected into the system, maintaining proper lubrication while avoiding potential damage.