Newbie with a question

[sgnlman]

I purchased a new (for me) sailboat which the PO had removed the A4 but left the shaft in with a new PSS seal. It presently has an outboard on a bracket. I was contemplating replacing the A4 and removing the outboard to clean up her stern but can't swing it till next year. should I have any concerns with the shaft for sailing this season, fasten it in place to keep from spinning, remove the prop from shaft? Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Alan]

Remove the prop for sure. The inboard end of the shaft has nothing to control its movement. I would also secure the shaft so that it doesn't move till you're ready to deal with it.

 

[Ross]

With a PSS shaft seal you must compress the bellows about 3/4 inch to get a seal. Otherwise you get a leak that could sink the boat. The prop will keep the shaft from being pilled into the boat and out of the seal. Probably remove the prop and install a Zinc tight against the cutless bearing to keep the seal tight.

 

[sailingdog]

I'd recommend adding a stainless steel collar to the shaft ala Maine Sail to keep the bellow compressed properly.

 

[redhead78]

If you are on the hard the safest and easiest would be remove the shaft, save it, get an expanding rubber plug, stick it in the inside of the stern tube tighten wing nut, if you want put one on the outside also. they go for about 2 bucks each. Red

 

[Ross]

If you are on the hard the safest and easiest would be remove the shaft, save it, get an expanding rubber plug, stick it in the inside of the stern tube tighten wing nut, if you want put one on the outside also. they go for about 2 bucks each. Red

I have to ask how you get the test plug past the PSS seal and bellows?

 

[redhead78]

You can clear out every thing on my boat and insert the plug inside the interior of the tube and tighten the wing nut.pull out the cutlass brg and put one outside also. Red

 

[Ross]

You realize of course that thses plugs are not stainless steel?

 

[redhead78]

Yes, even though its not stainless, do you think it will be ok for a season? Red

 

[Ross]

In fresh water maybe, in salt water? you have to be able to remove it.

 

[sgnlman]

Thanks to all for assistance. this weekend we pulled the prop, compressed the bellows a good 3/4 to 1 inch and installed a new shaft zinc tight to the cutlass bearing. she's all set for the season.

 

[sgnlman]

Now if i could just find a good deal on a used A4.....lol. Like finding the proverbial unicorn.