Cutlass bearing replacement question

[DougM]

I am just curious if there is anybody who has changed a cutlass bearing on a 323 or similar Beneteau without removing the prop shaft. It looks like it might be possible. The boat is a fresh water boat so corrosion and marine growth are not a potential problem.

If you did have to pull the shaft, could it be accomplished without dropping the rudder? I am already starting to put together a "to do" list for next spring after winter layup and it's not even August yet.

 

[cymeyer]

Hi Doug,

We put in a dripless seal about 8 years ago and have had no issues.
We did not remove the prop shaft, but had to loosen it to put in the new bearing.
We had to get help from the year to loosen the shaft since we didn't have the right tools.
Did not have to remove the rudder on our 321.

Chris

 

[Gunni]

I am just curious if there is anybody who has changed a cutlass bearing on a 323 or similar Beneteau without removing the prop shaft. It looks like it might be possible. The boat is a fresh water boat so corrosion and marine growth are not a potential problem.

If you did have to pull the shaft, could it be accomplished without dropping the rudder? I am already starting to put together a "to do" list for next spring after winter layup and it's not even August yet.

Not on the 411, but you do need to remove the prop to slid the cutlass on and off the shaft, and into the skeg fitting.

 

[alanwir]

Hi Doug:
I replaced the cutluss bearing on my 323 without having to lower the rudder. And I did it with no outer flange to work from. If for some reason, it does not slide out easily after taking out the side screw, run some soap and water down the shaft.

I would like to get a copy of that "to do list" when you have a chance as I should be probably doing the same thing as you.
Alan