Work required on the Stern Gear

 

Follow the links below for each stage, updated as I go along.

engine refit ] old engine out ] new tank ] new engine ] [ sterngear.htm ]

 

I had replaced the prop shaft and cutless bearing about 3 years ago, when I bought the boat the cutless bearing was shot, it had to be sawn out and at the same time the prop shaft had to be replaced.
I was very disappointed to find that the prop shaft and bearing were not looking great after just 3 years. The system uses a PSS shaft seal and a long rubber / brass bearing. We are now looking at feeding water from the engine into the PSS shaft so that the bearing is properly flushed.

On this picture with the bearing still mounted in the stern log, you can just make out the damage inside.

When the bearing was last replaced we took time to ensure that the bearing should come out easier this time. Sadly this was not to be.
Much wrenching, hammering, pulling and pushing had no effect other than to deform the outer edge.
Fortunately, in the last 3 years, big reciprocating saws have arrived and they cut the time on the job down from 2 days to 2 hours.
Two longitudinal cuts, a bit of hammering and the bearing was out, new one put in, a bit of epoxy over the grub screw holes and the job was done.
This better be the last time. Pictures are below, click on them to enlarge.

The old and new bearing

The Stern Tube with the old bearing out

Close up of the stern tube showing where the grub screws enter. This varies from baba 30 to baba 30

This is where I got carried away with the saw.

All done.

New Propellor

15 * 9, 3 blade right hand

Stern tube with PSS Seal (old pic)

Stern tube before cleaning