hunter 31 prop carrier assembly

Jun 21, 2022
8
Hunter 31 Brunswick
this piece is not detached, and i need to confirm that its steel or aluminum, any experts out there?
 
May 17, 2004
5,679
Beneteau Oceanis 37 Havre de Grace
What part do you mean exactly? I haven’t heard of a prop carrier assembly by that name. I can think of the prop shaft (stainless or bronze), strut (bronze), stuffing box (bronze or a mix of various materials if it’s a dripless), or maybe the shaft coupling (steel).
 
May 17, 2004
5,679
Beneteau Oceanis 37 Havre de Grace
The sleeve is called a cutlass bearing. The prop is attached to the prop shaft, which carries the torque from the engine. The “hull extension” is the prop strut. The bearing allows the shaft to spin within the strut.

If the shaft wiggles side to side or up and down in the cutlass bearing then the bearing is probably due for replacement. Some tips for its replacement are at Replacing A Cutlass Bearing (Sleeve Bearing) - Marine How To.
 
Jan 4, 2006
7,262
Hunter 310 West Vancouver, B.C.
this piece is not detached,
there is a thin line separating the prop cylinder carrier from the hull extension.
1655869042001.png


From what I see, if I'm not mistaken, the cutlass bearing housing is completely detached from the strut. Most unusual.

Whatever the cause, the prop cannot be turned in the water without causing severe damage to anything within striking distance. The strut relies on its full, initial strength as a complete casting to keep the prop in place.

As @Davidasailor26 has mentioned, the strut is bronze. Brazing it back together is a recipe for disaster. Unfortunately, the entire strut must be replaced.
 

jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
23,140
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
Welcome to the SBO forum.

You asked for experts and 3 jumped in, identified the part and the issue, plus a solution.

Is this a new boat for you, one your considering buying, or a newly discovered issue?

The strut is usually a single cast piece of bronze.

It is not a repairable item. It is a remove and replace part.
 
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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
23,140
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
HAve fun with your new boat. The Hunter is a good boat and will bring you many enjoyable sailing days.