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Propellers shafts seals and bearings
Posted: October 15th, 2025, 11:37 am
by Punch'Eau
2000 350 Mariner. I think my propellers shaft are on the end. What do you think? I am new to shaft propelled boats.
The shafts are 1 1/2.
Easy to do? Seals and bearings easy to find?
Re: Propellers shafts seals and bearings
Posted: November 9th, 2025, 7:30 am
by paulr
Inside the strut there is a rubber cutlasss bearing. Unless you have significant experience and the right tools I would not attempt that job.
Regarding removing the prop you need a heavy duty puller and maybe a torch for some heat to get it off. Once its off it should be sent to a prop shop to be reconditioned. If you have no experience installing a prop on a tapered shaft you should get a pro to hone and torque done the nuts when its reinstalled.
Re: Propellers shafts seals and bearings
Posted: November 9th, 2025, 7:40 am
by Punch'Eau
Thank you. I have the skills but not the tools so I will follow your advice and have it done by a pro
Re: Propellers shafts seals and bearings
Posted: November 9th, 2025, 9:07 am
by Viper
Ya the key here is having the right tools, makes it way easier, otherwise this can totally be done with some guidance if you're mechanically inclined. New bearings shouldn't be a problem to source, you just need the outside and inside diameter, sounds like the ID in your case is 1-1/2" They come in pretty standard lengths 6-8" for small pleasure craft applications.
BTW, looks like someone put a tool on the shaft to spin it which in a no no. They should use the prop to turn it or if the prop is off, use an adjustable wrench around the shaft with the key installed. The key will act as a stop for the wrench to allow turning the shaft. If you can't turn the shaft by hand or with a wrench as described, lube the bearing with a spray lubricant or water. If you still can't spin it that easily, there's a problem, it's either misaligned, bent shaft, etc. You don't want to mark up the shaft anywhere in case you or a shop needs to dial it in the future.