[C320-list] Changing the prop in cold weather

[Jon Vez]

Just did this myself. Used a 23 inch pipe wrench. The fun is just beginning, pulling the prop itself was quite a chore. I used a large hub puller, but it took quite a bit of effort. Good luck!

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On Dec 29, 2012, at 5:09 PM, Fred LEcuyer <fred.lecuyer at live.com> wrote:

> Maybe one of you has done this before and has some words of wisdom.
> 
> I've gotten a three blade prop to replace the original two blade and decided that, as the weather was about 38 degrees F here, today would be a good day to do a job on the boat ;>)
> 
> Here's what I did:
> STEP 1.     Sprayed PB Blaster in the area of concern and let it sit for about 10 minutes. 
> STEP 2.     Fiddled with the wrenches that I had and found only the vise grip was large enough to get around the first nut.
> STEP 3.    Heated the first nut with a propane torch for a few minutes..... not enough to make it glow and Rudolph was on vacation anyway, so no help there.
> STEP 4.   Applied the vise grip on the outer nut and (yes, I admit it) a pipe wrench on the inner nut.
> STEP 5.  Tapped the vise grips with a hammer while holding the pipe wrench as steady as possible.
> STEP 6.   Grimaced. (Did I mention that I had shoulder 12 months ago and now the other shoulder is jealous?)
> STEP 7.   Cursed and told myself I either need better wrenches, more heat or ..... a yet bigger yard bill.
> 
> 
> At this point I like to hear from anyone about what size wrenches I need and any other tips on doing what I thought was going to be a simple job.
> 
> Many thanks for your thoughts.
> 
> Fred
> First Light
> Hull 926
> 
> 
>