I Need Some Running Gear Advice, Catalina 27

[philwsailz]

'Got my shaft dimensions. Got my shaft log dimensions. 1" and 1.5".



Shaft length from bare coupler-end to taper is 30.125. Add 5" for the prop taper and threads. Ordering a shaft is going to be relatively easy. The couplers is commonly available. Let me get through Christmas.....

While digging, poking and prodding I notice a lack of SAE J1171 MARINE marking on the alternator.

B.O.A.T...

Bust out another thousand...

 

[philwsailz]

So... Christmas is done. Time to buy a few things for me...
I pulled the trigger this morning... I ordered a new Aqualoy 22 prop shaft, a new A4 shaft coupler, the stuffing box assembly with hose and 4 proper clamps, and a set of stuffing box wrenches. I checked in with the machine shop where a few buddies work and hang out, and as a result of the local Mercruiser stern-drive plant closing, there is a marine machinist now working there. Fitting and facing the coupler to the shaft will be no big deal.

At this point, I am not going to replace everything behind the motor except for the prop, so my plan is to get the boat back together and then prior to launching I will be installing one of the Indigo 3-blade props designed for the A4 motor. I also will be looking to replace that alternator....

 

[philwsailz]

Quick update. 'Glad to be doing this out of the water!

As of today I have two different sizes of Ultra-X packing. I had the 3/16 and received the 1/4" today.

Know that with the, (unknown origin) original stuffing box and original bronze shaft you would be in panic mode if you were attempting to put 1/4" packing material arond the shaft and into the box. It DOES NOT FIT. Sorry Woodster, we were both looking at the same data and the same measurements... I get that but having cut three rings and popped them in you cannot get it over the shaft.

Pics later but know this C27 owner will recommend for this era boat that IF you are re-packing a STOCK stuffing box, regardless of new or original prop shaft, use 3/16" packing material!

If you are in the belly of the beast in the water with it pouring through an open shaft log you will not want to be fighting with 1/4" material.

 

[philwsailz]

See the difference? It's only 1/16". .0625".

Yup, HUGE DIFFERENCE!