Hunter 34 Propeller Shaft Length

[JACKHEAPE]

Rather than try and press the coupling off the propeller shaft I am looking at possibly replacing the shaft with a stainless one and getting a new coupling. I currently have a bronze shaft and it is probably the original, and have read horror stories on the forums here about getting the coupling loose from the shaft. I am also worried about damaging the transmission while trying to get it off. Am trying to get an idea of what it would cost to get a new stainless stell shaft. Does anyone know the length of the shaft on a Hunter 34? 1983 model Westerbeke 21 with HBW Transmission. I obviously can get the exact length after I cut it out if I go that route but as I said trying to estimate costs.

 

[woodster]

for the shaft only plan on $275.00 but if you get one made with the coupling mounted on it from the supplier you may get a better deal for both ...try general propeller in bradenton fl for a quote ....but have all you dimentions ready to tell them when you call....they were very helpful when i had mine made.....

 

[Allan12210]

You can still give a shot to removing that coupling without risking the transmission half. If it works, you've saved yourself a lot of effort and expense. You could apply the money you save to a new PSS dripless packing and R&D split coupling.

I bought a steering wheel puller and a short fine threaded bolt that goes in place of the long bolt that comes with the puller. That way you can work in the space you have (like mine, tight). Soak the entire thing with PB Blaster for a few days then go to work. Use some bolts and nuts and bolt it flush to the coupling. Screw in the center bolt and turn it a bit, then tap lightly with a hammer on the side of the coupling. It should get easier. If not, leave it under tension for a while and spray more PB Blaster. Once you bottom the bolt out, you will alternately back it out and fill the space with small sockets, or stacks of washers until it finally presses off.

 

[whatfiero]

You just seperate shaft coupling pull the shaft set screws spray up with pb blaster drop a socket in between coupling on shaft end get longer bolts and use pressure pulling coupling back together to pull shaft out it doesn't put any stress on tranny as all pressure on prop shaft and coupling sometimes ya take apart push shaft all way to pss seal and smack with hammer to help seperate