[C320-list] How to measure prop shaft play?

[Jon Vez]

Bill,

9 seasons is a very long time for a cutless bearing--congratulations...but
typically if you can move the shaft up and down or side to side it's time to
replace. The wear and vibration can get worse very quickly once play is
introduced. If you stand under the shaft just aft of the strut, and try the
above you will pretty much know. If not sure, ask someone who works in the
yard or another boater you trust to take a look...I'm guessing you won't get
away with procrastinating :(

Regards,

Jon Vez
Solstice #582

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Bill
Culbertson
Sent: Thursday, March 12, 2009 7:06 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] How to measure prop shaft play?

I've a question.  For years my prop shaft has had zero play.  We're about to
start our 9th season and I'm finally noticing a bit of play in the shaft. 
Nigel Calder says more than about 1/16" and it's time to replace the cutless
bearing.  I'm figuring it is either this season or next season but would
prefer next season like the good procrastinator that I am.  We've had no
vibration.

So being the lousy estimator that I am, what is a good way to determine how
much play I'm feeling?

 -bill
 Harmony #859