Self tightening drone propellers

On the DJI Phantom 3 and earlier, the props were self tightening and almost fool proof. As long as you put the correct prop on the correct post, the props would tighten as the motors spun, so the chance of them coming off were very slim.

Here’s how to attach self tightening props:

1. Match up the color of the marker on the prop to the color of the post on the motor.
2. Place the matching propeller on the matching motor.
3. Spin the propeller as indicated by the marker on the blade to tighten it. Black props tighten by turning counter-clockwise, while grey props tighten by turning clockwise.
4. You don’t need to crank the propellers on tightly as they will self tighten during flight.
5. Removal is as simple as holding the motor, and turning the propeller in the opposite direction. Black props loosen by turning clockwise, and grey props loosen by turning counter-clockwise.

Twist-lock drone propellers

The newer style propellers on the DJI Phantom 4 and DJI Inspire series drones connect via a twist-lock. Instead of just spinning the propellers into place, you have to securely attach them to the motors.

Here’s how to attach twist-lock props:

1. Match up the colour of the marker on the prop to the colour of the post on the motor. On the Phantom 4 series the post with no markings on it matches up with the grey prop, while the post with the black dots on it matches up with the black prop.
2. Place the matching propeller on the matching motor.
3. Hold the motor with one hand, and push down on the center of the propeller with the other, while slowly turning the propeller in the direction indicated on the blade. Black propellers tighten by turning counter-clockwise, while grey props tighten by turning clockwise.
4. Once the propeller is snug, you don’t need to crank it tight. Simply rotate the blade and ensure that it’s snug with the motor and both turn together.
5. Removal is as simple as holding the motor with one hand, pushing down on the propeller with the other hand, and turning it in the direction indicated on the blade. Black props loosen by turning clockwise, and grey props loosen by turning counter-clockwise.

Enjoy your flight!

Now that your props are securely attached to your drone, head out and have a safe flight! If you want to learn how to safely fly your drone, check out this free training course that we’ve created for you. Once you’re ready to fly, be sure to use a solid pre-flight checklist, and log those flights with our free drone logbook. See you in the sky!