Shafts and all that is involved with them

[Joint Custody]

Hi all,
I searched for a general run down on shafts ... didn't really find what I was looking for.

I have had boats all my life however this is my first shaft boat. Loving them so far.
Doing a little planning this morning on fall and winter work... yes I know " Fall"

What maintenance should I be doing in the engine room and underneath the boat while it is out of the water? Transmissions have been serviced ... just haven't really done anything with the shafts.
What should I be looking for in regards to wear and replacement?

 

[The Bill Collector]

I replaced my dripless shaft seals this spring as they were leaking under the engines and dropped the rudders to re-pack them... Outside would be your cutless bearings and I am not an expert but I did a visual and then had the professional view them for possible replacement and he said we are good...

 

[Joint Custody]

I replaced my dripless shaft seals this spring as they were leaking under the engines and dropped the rudders to re-pack them... Outside would be your cutless bearings and I am not an expert but I did a visual and then had the professional view them for possible replacement and he said we are good...

Thanks

 

[sbw1]

Shafts don't require any maintenance unless you run aground, hit something or run props that are badly out of balance. The only work I ever performed on an inboard boat that was shaft related was to add dripless packing glands. That saved me repacking stuffing boxes. All you need to do is check the props for wiggle at the cutlass bearings and check the packing glands for excessive leaks at lay up. If there is no play at the prop struts or packing leaks you are are good.

 

[NotHerDecision]

I second sbw1.

I suggest lasdrop seals. They allow movement in the shaft/engine alignment slightly. The shafts will have to be pulled to replace the seals so you may as well do cutless bearings and tidy up the coupler as well. Get your props reconditioned and your ready for the next year of boating!

I know we have similar boats so I would also think about replacing those plastic thru hulls and adding a direct overboard discharge for the galley sink while you are hauled out.

 

[Joint Custody]

I second sbw1.

I suggest lasdrop seals. They allow movement in the shaft/engine alignment slightly. The shafts will have to be pulled to replace the seals so you may as well do cutless bearings and tidy up the coupler as well. Get your props reconditioned and your ready for the next year of boating!

I know we have similar boats so I would also think about replacing those plastic thru hulls and adding a direct overboard discharge for the galley sink while you are hauled out.

Thank you. All good stuff and if you know me ... well I will just do the upgraded parts as I like to know everything has been done and done right..

On the sink... I had thought mine went through the sump... This boat was ordered and shipped to Lake Powell. I found the original build sheet and the first owner had it requested that the sink drain out the starboard side into the lake.