Next-Gen Hartzell Top Prop Now an Option for Piper Matrix/Mirage

Higher performance doesn't usually come at a lower price. But Hartzell's latest Top Prop for the Piper PA-46 Matrix and Mirage piston singles offers just that. With advanced carbon fiber/Kevlar blades and a new lightweight aluminum hub, the second-generation three-blade Top Prop for the Piper cabin-class single saves 11 pounds over its ancestor. That represents seven gallons of fuel, or 30 minutes' flying time. The first-generation Top Prop from Hartzell is standard on production PA-46s. Further, the new electrothermally heated prop is certified for flight into known icing (FIKI). Cruise performance is slightly higher and engine temperatures are lower-as much as 15°F lower oil temperature at high altitude. Perhaps best of all (especially these days), the new Top Prop is priced at $24,000, including the deicing element and a polished spinner-$4,500 less than its first-generation predecessor.