Hi Neil,
Here's some quick and inexpensive tools that I've found very handy maintaining a combat fleet.
Photos 1, 2 &3, this is a simple prop trimming jig that can be made for any type of props; this one happens to be for trimming 9" props to 8-1/2 and 8-1/4. You can get 2 different sizes just by trimming the ends of the block, make sure the prop can be bolted down very tightly so you will have accurate cuts. I have cut props with cutoff wheels, small table saw and my jig saw (scroll) and probably a band saw would work very nicely. Number 3 photo shows the finished prop with newly shaped tips and balanced, this is done with a small disk sander.
Photo 4-a simple way to keep your props neat, 1/4" dowel and a rubber band; some people also use a system on their pit box (but I have found, any more than one prop change you've lost the match anyway). A handy thing to have at the field would be some Q-tips, they're great for removing grass and minor dirt from your exhaust port and venturi.
Photos 5-8, this is a very handy portable vise (from Home Depot) that will clamp to most anything. The vise is made of nylon so it's great for soldering because it doesn't draw heat away from your work as a steel vise would. Not only is the vise great but the clamps that came with it have endless uses as you can see in the photos I have clamped down my 1/2 hp motor (which I use for drilling, buffing and, etc.), note that I also clamp down my disk sander, it just goes on and on what you can use these clamps for, a great investment.
Photo 9- an inexpensive tool that a lot of people overlook is a simple drill gauge, it great for checking not only drills but pushrod wire, needle valve spraybar dia., booms and dowels, etc., this is one of my favorite tools in my shop.
