I need to follow up on my propeller situation. After further study, I found that indeed the propeller shaft was spinning too slowly. It was a problem in what I called the transmission, but what the professionals call the reversing gear. The clutch was worn out and no amount of linkage adjustment would correct it. I had a new clutch and seals installed by Mack Boring, and it works perfectly now. So if anyone assumes that their propeller is not opening correctly, don't go buy a new prop like I did, but check first that the clutch is fully engaging.
