Flexible coupling

[sonnysoh]

Hi fellow members,
Is it advisble to install a flexible coupling to my Hunter 33, year model 2008 to the present system which is bolted straight to the prop shat from the gearbox flange. Secondly, does this conflict with Hunter's warranty. Your advice and help is much appreciated.

Sonny

[Chief Engineer]

Do you want a flexible coupling or a Shaft/propsaver?

With some you may have to shorten your shaft.

If the vessel is new, I wouldn't mess with anything.

What leads you to believe that you need a flexible coupling?

[sonnysoh]

Hi Chief Engineer,
I want a flexible coulping to be install between the gearbox flange and the prop shaft. I have a Yanmar 3YM30 with 29hp. I dont think I need to trim the prop shaft. The reason to install are as follows: to reduce vibration, easy on gearchange, and more forgiving on engine and shaft alignment and maintenance. Your help is much appreciated. Sonny

[speciald@ocens.]

I had an unfortuate occurrence with a shaft saver last Fall. The unit had been "professionally" installed when a Max Propwas istalled as more shaftlength was needed about 5 yrs earlier. The unit has nuts with nylon locks. Apparently the nuts slowly backed out and, when putting the engine in gear 700 miles from anywhere, the bolts sheared off, dropping the shaft, mis-alligning the LasDrop, and starting to flood the boat. Luckily I had a shaft collar on the shaft which kept it from backing out and jambing the rudder. I supported the shaft, realligning it, and the leak stopped. Had to sail the rest of the way, no problem as the wind was good. I've added torqueing those nuts to my pre-cruise list.