I have a 14 year old Oceanis 351 with, on close inspection, a slightly bent prop shaft (presumably from when purchased 2nd hand).
A surveyor had a look, and also checked the cutlass bearing which he considerred to be within expected tollerance / movement.
He tells me it is probably worth getting both sorted in the next year or so - unless I plan to significantly increase my sailing habits, in which case sooner, rather than later.
As such, and probably next spring, I plan to have the shaft removed, and straightened or replaced.
Whilst I am at it, I plan to have the cutlass bearing replaced, and likewise the Volvo shaft seal (now 7 years old) - all in one go.
Has anyone had these things done? If so, I would like to hear what is involved, and what pitfalls I might face ? I would also like to know if straightening the shaft ( 3 mm movement mid kink) is preferrable to purchasing a new one.
views anyone ?
Many thanks
