1988 Hunter 28.5 Sail in Reverse

[linecreek]

Ok, I know that there is a bulletin out from Yanmar to sail in Neutral, but the previous owner (I bought this sailboat in August 2012) said whatever anyone says to you, sail it in reverse. He said Hunter recommends reverse because the transmission uses cooling water while running. If engine is off transmission does not get it. If prop freewheels without cooling, you can burn out bearings and seals.

When I first sailed her, I had ignition in neutral while undersail and the engine make lots of noises. I put her in reverse and the noise stopped. I have since realigned the shaft up with the motor mount. It doesn't make noises while in neutral.

Would appreciate your input if you have a similar year/engine. I have a 1988 Hunter 28.5 with a 2 cylinder 16 HP Yanmar Diesel Engine 2GM20F

 

[kloudie1]

That transmission is not water cooled .. it is lubricated by the ball bearings' rollers dipping into the oil in the sump and carrying it to the top of the shaft as the balls rotate.. It is very important that the oil level be correct .. Sailing in neutral turns the output shaft but not the gears; the noise you were hearing was the result of the misalignment .. sounds like you've got that fixed.. Sailing in reverse was the recommended way for many years .. That does lock the cone clutch and stops the shaft from turning.. The clutch may "lock" in reverse if the lever is jammed into reverse with the shaft spinning quickly.. which I think is why Yanmar is recommending neutral.. To unlock, you may have to crank the engine to be able to get it to shift to neutral .. It obviously does no harm to sail in neutral, other than the possibility of locking if you go to reverse with the shaft spinning fast..
EDIT: It is also important that the lever be exactly in the neutral detent when sailing in neutral. If the lever is pushed a little one way or the other, The cone clutch parts may rub together and wear out the clutch..

 

[Benny17441]

Don't understand the dissatisfaction with manufacturer published directives. For years a debate ensued with advocates on both sides. Now the manufacturer after considering the data has issue a bulletin. This is simple, if someone believes they are more knowledgeable that the manufacturer they can continue to sail in reverse. It is time to let this issue die in the archives.