Question on Series 1 shaft log to shaft clearance

May 9, 2011
1,000
Hi Everyone,

Just about ready to drop the Betamarine 13.5 into my boat. I'm a little concerned about the clearance between the shaft log and the shaft. Because the original stern bearing had been removed, I've modified the design by getting a new bearing carrier made that will be glassed into the hull. This bearing carrier is designed to hold a Johnson Duromax 1 1/4" x 1" x 4" brass / nitrile rubber cutless bearing. The housing is more or less installed half into and half out of the hull and therefore will protrude about 50 mm past the end of the hull.

The new shaft is 1" diameter and the stern gland seal is a Volvo Blackjack. The shaft will connect to the engine using a split coupler and the hardware supplied with the engine.

Where I'm concerned is that the inner diameter of the shaft log is about 28mm which seems a very limited clearance. I'm hoping someone who has either been there and done that or is just knowledgeable on these things can offer an opinion or suggestions on potential issues that may exist with the shaft hitting the log?

Thanks
 
Nov 8, 2001
1,818
Hi

The Beta has been fitted in to over 150 vegas now including many Series I Vegas with the stern tube you describe. So long as teh alignment is good you shouldnt have a problem, not heard of any so far (Over 12 years of Vega/beta Installations).

Cheers Steve B