[C320-list] Cutless Bearing Project

[Jeff Smith]

Troy,

If you have a PSS dripless, you might as well replace the bellows at the same time. This requires you to remove the shaft from the coupler, but I am guessing that it is time for the bellows if it is time for the cutless bearing. I note this because I did my dripless bellows when I did my bearing. What I did not know is that our propeller shaft requires a spacer. So, I ordered the bellows but the diameter was slightly too big. When I called PSS, they said I could reuse the spacer, but it is not preferred. I did not realize there was a spacer when I ordered the bellows. This would not have been a big deal for you, being on the hard for 5.5 months, but I was paying for yard time by the day. 

I used a standard two-jaw puller (Craftsman) to remove the propeller. Just make sure you put the cap on the end that makes a connection with the shaft, pulling the propeller off, or you will dimple your shaft (as I did, since I still have the bronze shaft). 

I also regreased my Max-prop at the same time and replaced all the screws and cotter pins, etc.

 I used the BACK bearing, as well, and it worked perfectly. I was a bit worried because it was slightly shorter than the length of the strut. I tried to center it (fore-aft) in the strut. The tool does work very well. My buddy (different make) was extremely jealous, as he pays the yard to do his. 

Good luck. 

Jeff
’94, #121

> On Nov 10, 2020, at 11:00 PM, Mark Cole <boatnboot at me.com> wrote:
> 
> Hi, Troy;
> 
> I used the bearing puller a couple of years ago and it worked great.  There is a form to fill out on the C320.org <http://c320.org/> website to get the tools sent to you.  You need to be a member and log into the website to see the form.  It is under the tab "C320 Resources”.  Fill it out and the tool loaner administrator will get ahold of you to work out shipping.  When I used the tools, Bruce Stumpp was the administrator.  You will need to pay shipping both ways and that isn’t cheap, but it was still worth it.  I was able to hang onto the tools for a couple of weeks and Bruce will tell you if you should send the package back to him or on to another member.
> 
> Mark
> Fiddler’s Green, #8
> 
>> On Nov 10, 2020, at 6:29 PM, Troy Dunn <troutwarrior at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Our boat is on the hard for the next 5 1/2 months.  I'm going to replace
>> the cutless bearing.   I will be ordering the BACK bearing from Duramax
>> this week or next.   Trying to understand the 'protocol' for borrowing the
>> prop puller and bearing tool.  Once I have my target date set for doing
>> this work, what is the general consensus on how long I can keep the tools
>> etc.   I’m not planning on keeping the tools any longer than necessary but
>> I'm also not planning on an expletive filled day either...when the project
>> goes sideways as boat projects are want to do, I'd be interested in hearing
>> what the general tool borrowing etiquette is.   Can the current US Toolbox
>> Coordinator please advise.
>> 
>> Troy Dunn
>> Hull #514
>