New problem after launching this spring. I get a very noticeable "whine" when I motor between 800 and 1800 RPM. It does not start until 800 and kicks off at around 1800-1900 RPM. When you go to 900 RPM, the sound takes about a second at that RPM before you hear it.

1. It does not occur when not in gear but with the engine running hence it does not appear to be the engine, pumps or pulleys. It seems to be in the drive train aft of the engine.

2. I released the stuffing box a bit to get more water lubricating it and there is a drip so it does not seem to be the box. I also sprayed WD 40 on the shaft where it goes into the box thinking something might be dry there.

3. I didn't hit anything thus I don't believe the shaft is bent, and if it was I'd think I'd get a noise at all RPM.

4. You can't hear the noise when close to the transmission. I changed the trans. oil this winter and it is at the correct level.

5. Listening in the engine compartment and the aft lockers, the noise seems to be loudest in the stern lazerrets. When you get down close to the transmission or the stuffing box, you actually can't hear the noise.This seems to indicte that the sound is coming from the cutless bearing. The bearing is about 4 years old but I checked it during the winter and there was no wobble in the shaft at that time.

6. There is no noticeable vibration, just the noise.

Has anyone else expereinced a similar problem... any suggestionis?

Thanks.... Chuck