[C320-list] Prop Shaft

[Warren Updike]

We are just completing a shaft replacement at a cost of about $450, doing it ourselves using the Assn. tools. At times, it took two people. We have 2,000 hrs. on our 1994 hull #62. The cutlass had not been previously replaced.
As Chris points out, sand in the water could cause excessive wear in the cutlass. I think a poor shaft alignment could be a contributor. Maybe other reasons too. 
Bronze is softer than SS, and is the reason we replaced the shaft. Over the years, the stuffing had worn a grove in the shaft that allowed too much water inflow when the engine was running. Not a burden for the bilge pump; but, the rotating shaft threw water in a circle under the aft cabin. I didn't like that. 
If excessive flow at the stuffing box is not an issue, I suggest replacing only the cutlass bearing, getting a good alignment, and seeing how things go for the next 2-3 years, then decide.

Warren and Pattie Updike
1994 C320 "Warr de Mar" #62
Middle River, MD (Chesapeake Bay)

-----Original Message-----
From: Tim [mailto:chillinonahd at yahoo.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2018 12:20 PM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com; c320-list-request at lists.catalina320.com; c320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Prop Shaft

Hi All - 
I had some play in my cutlass bearing after about 4 yrs of light motoring (<100hrs per year) and the yard mechanic is suggesting to replace the prop shaft. He is stating that  bronze is too soft and wears too quickly. My boat is a 99 with less that 800 hours in total.
Does this sound reasonable or do I need to find another mechanic?
Thanks
TimCalypso#603