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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/comm-cs-prop-power-increase-order

When increasing power with a constant-speed propeller, which do you increase first?

Rpm first, then manifold pressure.

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  1. Manifold pressure first, then rpm
  2. Both at the same instant, no order needed
  3. Rpm first, then manifold pressure ✔

Why: Raising rpm first keeps manifold pressure from getting too high for the rpm. When reducing power, do the reverse: lower manifold pressure first, then rpm.

Huh, didn't know that: On a takeoff with a constant-speed prop, the tachometer should come up to within 40 rpm of red line as soon as full power is applied.

The dad joke
Why did the pilot increase rpm first? He wanted to rev up before the big boost.
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References

Answer: Rpm first, then manifold pressure. Raising rpm first keeps manifold pressure from getting too high for the rpm. When reducing power, do the reverse: lower manifold pressure first, then rpm.

  1. Airplane Flying Handbook ch 12, Transition to Complex Airplanes (FAA-H-8083-3C) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/13_afh_ch12.pdf
    When increasing power, increase the rpm first and then the manifold pressure
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Airplane Flying Handbook ch 12, Transition to Complex Airplanes (FAA-H-8083-3C) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/13_afh_ch12.pdf
    the tachometer reading should come up to within 40 rpm of the red line as soon as full power is applied
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. Airplane Flying Handbook ch 12, Transition to Complex Airplanes (FAA-H-8083-3C) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/13_afh_ch12.pdf
    When decreasing power, decrease the manifold pressure first
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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