The original bronze propshaft on my 1989 C36 Mk I had some galvanic corrosion near the the strut so I'm replacing it with a SS shaft from Catalina Direct. I've already cut the old shaft out due to the coupler being seized to the shaft but I'm finding conflicting reports as to whether the rudder needs to be dropped in order to install the new shaft. I've removed the cutlass bearing to give me some more wiggle room but if anyone has done this sort of job before I'd be happy to hear about your experiences. Thanks.
Mike
Mike,
With the cutless bearing out, your shaft will slide past the rudder. It will be a snug fit, but you won't have to bend or cut anything. Try both sides. Sometimes a rudder post is just slightly bent one way or the other. No need to drop the rudder.
Tom Sokoloski
C36/375IA Past Commodore
Noank, CT
Tom is correct. I was able to have my prop shaft replaced last Spring without dropping the rudder as Tom described. The new cutlass bearing was installed once the shaft was in place using the old bearing to tap in the new one. The new one was put on ice for about 45min to potentially 'shrink' the bearing to ease installation. It did slip on relatively easily. cheers
Alain Croteau
"Veritas"
C36 #1226 SR/wk
Yanmar 3JH2
Kingston, Ontario
Thanks a lot. I'll let you know how it goes.