Loose strut

[pcjrusso]

my strut is loose i searched the threads and I find that the strut bolts have the nuts glassed in under the fuel tank. Well not my boat lol My strut is mounted with 4 - # 12x 2" stainless screws. The strut is solid as a rock after re tighting the screws. my concern is all the searching talked about bolts and nuts are 4 # 12 screws strong enough? It seems to be orginal but could be a previous owners doing. I own the boat for 4 seasons and guessing 100-150 hours of motoring Thanks for any input

 

[jibes138]

What size boat and engine? The concern would be wrapping a lobster trap or hitting something with the prop. It ma be designed as a fuse to break under load before holing the hull. A hole in an inaccessible location is a likely sinking.

 

[pcjrusso]

Duh !!! 1982 Oday 34. With universal M-25

 

[chuck stas]

I'm looking to remove my strut to install a new prop shaft 30'1983 oday. It has 4 ss phillips head something. Hope its 4 screws that way I don't have to remove the gas tank.
Yours was screws ? not bolts
would appreciate any info.

 

[kito]

I don't see a problem. I don't think a PO would purposely downsize the bolts . As long as it's solid and not leaking. Mine is attached with 6 1/4" bolts. It's only purpose is to support and align the shaft at the prop end. Btw, my strut is bronze and through bolted with bronze bolts/nuts and a backing plate.

 

[jibes138]

Why are you taking out the strut to replace a shaft? The shaft should slide right out and the new one slide right in?