2001 Beneteau 361 Engine Mount Bracket Replacement

[GDanko]

During a survey, we discovered the bracket connecting the forward/starboard isolator to the Westerbeke engine was cracked - 1,100 hours. Possible cause - The PO fouled a dinghy tow line on the prop shaft so tight that it stalled the engine.

The replacement bracket has gussets reinforcing; much better. The part has been ordered (almost $500....) but is expected to take months for delivery. I'm almost certain the cracked bracket can be repaired and improved but I need to get it removed.

It appears the rubber Isolators are original and should be replaced as well. While stored for the season I'll also replace the cutlass bearing per the surveyor's suggestion, then check the alignment.

Question - Does anyone have a technique for lifting the engine just enough to remove the bracket (first priority before spring launching). Any guidance on replacing the rubber isolators?

Thanks,
Jerry

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

The load on the front STB isolator can be removed by taking the load off the diagonal (aft port) isolator. The entire load of the engine will now be on the other two diagonal isolators.

******** Mark off the exact position of the aft port isolator before doing this. This will help with the alignment job once the new or refurbished isolator is installed.

I'll also replace the cutlass bearing per the surveyor's suggestion, then check the alignment.

A previous lack of alignment is likely the cause of the cutlass bearing failure.

 

[GDanko]

What a simple technique; thank you! Should I partially unbolt or loosen the flange to gain flexibility?

I've yet to speak with the Ben dealer about the isolators. They are offered new by Westerbeke - very pricey.

But, I've not seen anything for refurbished Isolators. Do you have a source for them?

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Should I partially unbolt or loosen the flange to gain flexibility?

Assuming you are referring to the aft port isolator, I don't think it's necessary. I needed to do this on my Yanmar and everything was loose after the nut on the diagonally opposed support was unscrewed to its limit. You'll get a better picture once you are in there with skinned knuckles and bashed thumbs .

 

[GDanko]

The broke bracket is the forward starboard piece. Great access from the front.

Fortunately this boat has more room than my previous but I know it'll require lots of time on the belly. I'll try to replace the isolators while replacing the broken bracket, then install a new cutlass bearing, and finally do the best I can to align it. Thank you Ralph!

 

[Mechone]

Very common failure on Westerbekes . I have welded up a few for others beefing them up with gusets

 

[GDanko]

My parts (both front brackets) shipped yesterday....Knowing what I now know, I would have had the cracked bracket repaired - forward starboard side was cracked - does the port side typically crack also?

I'm a 1,000 miles separated from the vessel and wanted to be sure I had a good bracket come spring so I paid the big bucks for new pieces.

Mechone, after repairing and adding gussets, is the issue resolved or still subject to cracking?

I ask because I'll have the original bracket and can have it repaired and kept as a spare if the issue is likely to re-appear. Thanks for letting me know mine isn't the first. I just acquired the boat and the PO was fretting he might have done something to cause the crack such as when he got the dinghy tow line wrapped around the prop..

 

[Mechone]

I repaired 2 brackets for fellow boaters ,never failed again and that was 5 to 6 years ago My boat is a perkins

 

[GDanko]

Received the new brackets from Westerbeke. They have the gussets which the originals did not. Should last the remaining life of the engine.

Can anyone tell which part is worth $169 more than the other? When asked about it, Westerbeke's response was to raise the price so each sells for $467. These are not wear items but rather structural, intended to last the life of the unit. Periodic replacement shouldn't be required.

Westerbeke's actions don't jive with their stated corporate goals:

"Today, we are committed to maintaining our status as an industry and technology leader. Our goal is to be a company that people choose to do business with because:

• We genuinely care about—and support—our customers with superior service worldwide.
• Our products provide superior value, quality and performance."

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Westerbeke's response was to raise the price so each sells for $467

Sounds like their company goal is to rob you blind.

 

[Mechone]

Wow I charged the guy I welded and added gussets and painted 2, bottles of red wine

 

[GDanko]

Not my wisest financial decision lately. I semi-panicked and ordered new pieces before removing the bracket and/or checking this forum for help. I walked it up the Westerbeke chain of senior management and their response is the same - demand for the parts like this has trailed off making it almost like a custom fabrication to provide the parts.

If I close off my thoughts that properly engineered structural parts like this shouldn’t need replacing, ever, I should feel good about getting a $169 discount on at least one part….hmmm, maybe tomorrow.

 

[jssailem]

Well to any observer of images it should be obvious.

One is left oriented and the other is right oriented.

One is traditionally more expensive. It is a brain thing.