Volvo DuoProp prop shafts have vertical play

[nathanj988]

I recently purchased a '97 Chris Craft with an OMC/Volvo 5.7 and DP outdrive with 200 hours. I have been going through everything on the boat to access what I need to look at and what is sound/good.

I noticed that with the props off the boat, the prop shaft can be lifted a tiny amount. It is enough that you can feel it tick or click as you move it up and down.

I need to replace the 2 outer prop shaft seals, so I figure I need to remove the retaining ring and pull the shaft. It looks like tightening that retaining ring would drive the tapered bearing tighter against the bearing retainer to remove the play. I'm not sure if I want to do that though because of gear lash.

What is the correct course of action to take?

Thanks,
Nathan

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo DuoProp prop shafts have vertical play

Leave it alone, sounds normal. The bearing isn't pressed onto the shaft, it just slips over it, and there will be a very small amount of movement.

 

[nathanj988]

Re: Volvo DuoProp prop shafts have vertical play

Alright, that is good to hear.

I believe that I do need to remove the shaft though to replace the 2 seals. Can I count the number of turns it takes to remove the retainer nut, then reinstall it with the same number of turns after resealing? Do I need to do a rolling torque reading to do this properly?

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo DuoProp prop shafts have vertical play

I would do the rolling torque and do it right the first time. Price out s set of gears and you will know why.

 

[nathanj988]

Re: Volvo DuoProp prop shafts have vertical play

Thanks Don S.

Do I aim for the rolling torque value that is in the manual or should I test the current rolling torque value and aim for that?