Prop shaft play...in/out

[ErieRon]

Gentlemen;

I have an "MR" Alpha One drive (S.N. OA706258) that is apart (lower from upper) to replace the water pump. The drive is off because I spun my engine coupler and figured I would service the drive. While cleaning off the prop shaft I noticed that the splines are very slightly nicked up...more of what I would describe as "chatter" marks, laterally down the plines. Also, I am able to pull the shaft in and out approximately .025"-.032". Wanting to error on the side of caution, can anyone tell me if this play is typical?

Thanks in advance.

Ron
PS posted in prop forum 1st by mistake...sorry

 

[jtybt]

Re: Prop shaft play...in/out

You should be using spline grease on the prop shaft.

Type I and MR/alpha's have a floating prop shaft. There's a big tapered bearing at the front of the prop shaft that gets loaded when water pressure on the prop blades force the prop and shaft forward when in forward. When in reverse, the prop shaft is only supported by the shaft bearings in the bearing carrier...Soooo, don't gun it in reverse.

 

[ErieRon]

Re: Prop shaft play...in/out

Thanks jtybt;

I'm on top of the spline grease, just wasn't sure about the play in the shaft. So, by "floating" I gather mine is OK with a little play.

Thanks again,

Ron