banged up prop...outdrive problems

[jcz]

I found the shallow spot in the Detroit river yesterday.<br />I know I have to replace the prop, but how can I tell if the outdrive is bad?<br />please call on this one<br />Jerry Czernel<br />810-202-1677

 

[kenthrussell]

Re: banged up prop...outdrive problems

how bad did you bang it up??? were you using aluminum or a ss prop as the aluminum has more give then the ss,can you still turn the outdrive over by hand?

 

[jcz]

Re: banged up prop...outdrive problems

I was using an aluminum prop...which I lost about 1/3 of on each blade.<br />Yes I can still turn the shaft, but I had it miked and it was bent about 7tenths off...

 

[Walter]

Re: banged up prop...outdrive problems

As I see it...you have two choices. Either tear down the gear case looking for something that may have been damaged, or slap your new prop on and give it a go. (I'd opt for the latter of the two...but then again...I'm a reckless SOB!) If you've damaged anything inside your gear case, it will most likely show up on your first time out. However, before you put it in the water you might consider draining and inspecting the gear lube for any metal or water. If it all appears to be ok, then I suggest after installing your new (rebuilt) prop, you connect the muffs and garden hose and run in forward and reverse gears to see/hear what happens. If that's ok...I'd then drop your outdrive into the water but leave the boat on the trailer and once again go through the gears. If there's serious damage, it should be readily apparant with a load on the power train components. If all seems ok, take it out for a sea trial and see what happens. Stay close to the ramp for a while though...just in case! Aluminum props are rather forgiving...so hopefully it took the brunt of the impact and left your gears in good shape. Good luck!<br /><br />Walt

 

[Walter]

Re: banged up prop...outdrive problems

Oh geez...<br /><br />I just re-read your second post and realize you said the prop shaft was bent. Uh, well...that may be a problem. I suspect a bent shaft could cause a whole host of problems sooner or later...IE bearing failure, seal failure etc..... <br /><br />Hmmm... Well, I know of no way to straighten one out while it's still in place...so you may end up having to tear down your lower unit in order to make appropriate repairs. Was sure hoping you wouldn't have to go to that length... Anyway, once again...good luck!<br /><br />Walt

 

[jcz]

Re: banged up prop...outdrive problems

walter:<br />Thanks for the advise... I initially was going to let it go, but when I descovered the shaft was bent, I figured I go the distance.<br />I agree on the aluminum prop advantage, for sure!!