Alignment, or Lack of
The engine on my 1983 Hunter 33 was sitting about 3/4" too low to obtain straight, even alignment through the stern tube when sitting properly on the mounts. This reduced the clearance ofthe shaft to the opening to effectively zero. Stick a broom handle through a toilet paper roll and cock them at an angle to visualize what I'm saying. I raised the mounts by laying strips of 3/4" plywood over the existing wood strips. I fiddled with engine position untill the space around the shaft was the same all around both inside the boat and out. The packing was pulled out of the way for visability. Obviously this was done most easily with the boat out of the water. Bear in mind, it is very possible your strut has been bent. Pull the shaft aft till the forward end is just at the opening of the stern tube, and hold it in alignment with the cutless. A helper here makes this much easier. If the shaft points anywhere but dead center on the opening you probably have a problem. This is easily rectified with a new strut from Dahmer Marine in Keyport N. J. for the paltry sum of $250. Or you moight be able ti unbolt and shim the strut if it isn't bent too badly. Signed: Been there-done that If you need further infocontact me at samlust@monmouth.com
