Dear All, What a lovely day it was yesterday in Michigan , I spent the day however, getting my prop shaft out, thanks to everybody that give me all the hints and advice, the good news is it came out using 3/8 in bolts, 3in and 4 ins long, with a 1 in socket against the engine drive, all it took was time and effort..... When it was removed I found that the threads where the nut holds the prop on was damaged , never mind a new stainless steel shaft is on its way to me now. Eventually I'll get the boat back in the water. Alignment next episode three..... Thanks to everybody for there help and advice. Martin Grant S/V Emerald Dragon Hunter 33 " Fairs winds & tides "