Cutlass Bearing Replacement

[Tony Chirles]

I have a C27 #5543 and am planning on replacing the cutlass bearing. I also plan on replacing the stuffing box. What is the best way to replace the bearing and what type of stuffing box is recommended? ALSO....how do you re-align the drive shaft???Thanks.

 

[Melody Miller]

Before you start . .

Hi Tony:I don't know what year your boat is, but before you start, I would confirm with a mechanic that you're notgoing to have to move the engine to replace the bearing.I have a 76 model and replaced the bearing last year. Larry, the ace mechanic at Cadle Creek was not expecting that he would have to loosen and shift the engine. It was a heck of a job he said.Good luck,Melody

 

[DON]

Cutlass Bearing

I have an 86 c-27, M-18/wheel steering. I had the yard mechanic change my cutlass bearing. He used a hydraulic press to do the job, without taking the rudder out. It was well worth the $75 labor charge. An added benefit, was HE removed the prop to do the job, which required a tourch and big wrenches. While the prop was off, I had it balanced and re-pitched. The stuffing box is a personal choice. I repacked the original with flax and teflon grease (available from West Marine). I adjust it about once a season with a drop per minute when running. Be sure your prop shaft is centered in the hole that passes thru the hull. To align the shaft, you will adjust the engine mounts untill the flange on the end of the prop shaft mates with the flange on the transmission.

 

[Kevin]

Cutlass replacement

Dear Tony Chirles, Thank you for your note. The actual replacement of the bearing is not that hard. It is most likely held in place by two set screws and the simple “blind tolerance” of the otter casing of the bearing to the strut. Were it becomes difficult is when the shaft is not removable for reason which were talked about in other responses to your question. At that point it will require a hydraulic press which will press out the bearing while the shaft is in place. A device which most larger boat yards would have on hand. If you choose to replace the bearing yourself, I would suggest you ask a friend with experience for help. Hope this helps. Kevin L. Woody