Bent prop strut

[Sidewinder770]

Can a bent prop strut be bent back\repaired? Had a slight vibration so I pulled the props, no visible damage and prop scan wasn't horrible so I don't think I hit anything (or at least not with the prop). When I removed the prop I noticed more wear on one side of the Cutlass\strut bearing that the other (only visible when prop was removed- front looked OK). Figured it may be an engine alignment issue being so minor. Replaced bearing but I also disconnected the shaft from the trans to replace the dripless and noticed now, that the new bearing is in (and shaft is now riding in it correctly), that it's not aligning with the trans very well at all. Probably why I'm replacing the dripless as well- it wasn't leaking much- figured it was just age as it's at least 12 years old so it was time to replace. The bend in the strut is barely visible if you really look for it but it looks like the strut is ever so slightly bent- like maybe a 1/2" max from top to bottom. For this minor of a bend can it be repaired? If so how?

 

[dtfeld]

Yep. Strecker25 just did this. Search for bent strut with member Strecker25 and I think it’s in the 400/410 thread.

 

[Sidewinder770]

OK- i did a search but didn't find much- I'll look a little more.

 

[Strecker25]

Yep, it’s not a terrible repair. Couple things though -

the shaft will drop when you disconnect it from the trans. The shaft is only supported by the trans and the strut, and it’s a heavy piece of metal, so once you pull it from the coupler it’ll fall. The biggest indicator for me was that it didn’t drop straight down but rather way to the left.

And, what boat do you have?

you have to pull the prop, shaft, and then drop the strut. Your local prop shop can likely bend it back for you, mine only cost about $150 for that piece.

My repair is documented in the official 400/410DA thread. I’ll pull the link and post number so you can take a look at my progress.

 

[Strecker25]

Here’s the link. Start at post 3090 and follow through the thread.

http://www.clubsearay.com/index.php...xpress-cruiser-official-thread.53469/page-155

 

[Sidewinder770]

Thanks for the link. I noticed the pic of your strut and mine isn't even 1/2 as bent so it sounds like it should be easy enough. I'll ask my prop shop if they can do it- just need to get it removed.

 

[Strecker25]

Thanks for the link. I noticed the pic of your strut and mine isn't even 1/2 as bent so it sounds like it should be easy enough. I'll ask my prop shop if they can do it- just need to get it removed.

check out the video of the hydraulic press removing mine. It made it really easy