Transmission Loss

[Bob Patrick]

Last weekend, I lost all forward and reverse movement on my new 32 Ft. Hunter. It has the 2GM20F diesel (Yanmar). After bumping into numerous boats in the harbor, I investigated further and found that the prop shaft metal disk had separated completely from the transmission metal disk. All the bolts were lying underneath. I only have 30 hours on this engine. Any others experience anything similiar and what may cause this?

 

[Steve Dion]

Lock Tight

Bob:This should have been caught during the commisioning of the boat. Now you should have your dealer check this out. Once you are sure that everything is OKAY you should get some locktite on put it on the threads of each of the bolts. Once that are properly tightened this will probably never happen again but a little dab'il do ya.

 

[Darcy Peck]

Same Problem

Experienced the same thing last year on our new 340. While attempting to leave our slip upon shifting into reverse the boat did not move. Found the bolts from the coupling flange lying under the engine. I replaced the bolts after checking the shaft alignment & put lock tight on the threads. No problem since. I now understand that the lock washers on the bolts are to be used only once. I would still use lock tight & check the bolts on a routine basis as stated in the owners manual.

 

[Paul Bednarzyk]

Coupling flange

My understanding is that these bolts should also be wired, at least they are on my 380, so things like this don't happen at an inopportune time. Locktite is also a good idea, again the proverbial belt and suspender approach.Paul BednarzykS/V Knot Again

 

[Stevec]

Must be an incurable disease....

I had the shaft separate on my Legend 37 - 13 years ago on my maiden voyage. Something I DID NOT expect the dealer to overlook. Now I expect the unexpected. Not the best way to get to know your new boat intimately.

 

[Bob Patrick]

Thanks. Re: Transmission Troubles

Thanks to all who responded. Another interesting fact I found out was that there may be a possibility that the alignment is done while the boat is on the cradle and then when it sits in the water for awhile, everything shifts to its proper settling area. All new owners should watch this. Will be including this in my checklist from now on prior to departure.