Rudder Removal Not Necessary

[pvtpotter]

:naughty:
I see lots of people on here speculating about having to drop the rudder in order to remove the prop shaft. This is not the case on my H27 (1980). The strut is bent slightly. You can turn the rudder to one side and easily pull the prop shaft out. It is made like that so you don't have to drop the rudder.

I have a good close up of this and I will post it when I find it.
Thanks for looking.

 

[kasishunter30]

I did not have to drop the rudder on my '79 H30 either (thank goodness $$)

 

[Don Lucas]

When I replaced my shaft seal I was going to get a new shaft coupling and wanted it fitted at a machine shop. I couldn't get the shaft out of my 410 due to the rudder (I tried), so reused the old coupling.

 

[tmjb]

Did reusing the coupling produce any problems? How hard was it getting the flange back on the shaft?

I ask because I had to purchase a dedicated puller to get mine off ('81 H36) in order to change my stuffing box (even then it was a struggle) and getting it back on looks like it's going to be a challenge.

 

[Ed Schenck]

With the flange bolted to the crankshaft it should not be difficult to install the shaft. Using some emery cloth, make sure flange hole and end of shaft are clean. Then a little oil on both surfaces. Make sure there is a flat spot or dimple where the lock screws tighten down. Then drive it in from the prop end(being careful of the threads naturally). Always worked for me.

 

[tmjb]

Thanks Ed. Apologies if this is a stupid question but what did you use to drive it in and how much force?

I'm concerned that too much might possible buckle the shaft or damage something at the transmission.