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Prop removal

D

don

don bottaro
After installing a new engine, I need to remove the prop
from our M-382 (1979) to have it adjusted. I'm aware of the
space pinch at the rudder, which I think I can get around since
the rudder has a slight modification at that point and the
coupler can be removed, allowing some forward motion of the
shaft if necessary.
I would appreciate any tips on the mechanics of getting the
prop off, having only done outboard props previously. Is some
sort of puller necessary? Are there any small parts (bushings,
thrust washers, etc.) that might fall out in the process?
Anything else to watch out for or be aware of? To make it all
the more interesting, I have to do this with the boat in the
water!
 
I've owned my Morgan38-2 since '78.
Now the cutless bearing is beyond hope and needs to be replaced.
Has anyone had experience with this task?
I think that the shaft will have to be removed and that will require either removing the rudder or lifting the engine out of the way.
If there is experience in this area please let me know the best way to get the bearing replaced.

 
<div>Yes you will need a puller to remove the prop. It may be possible to remove the prop without removeing the rudder but I do not think so. Most pullers grip the prop and push on the shaft to break the prop lose from the morse taper and entend behind the prop and shaft 5 to 6 inches. I have replaced props in the water but not on a prop in an appature. This is not a job to be done in the water.There are no other parts except the prop and nuts that hold it on to the shaft.Good Luck,Vic C.
</div>
 
For what ever its worth, about 18 years ago I removed the three bladed prop which I replaced with a two bladed prop without dropping the rudder. I can't imagine doing it in the water.
 
Thanks for the warnings, but it turns out I don't have to pull the prop after all. A brief sea-trial Sunday showed the engine turned 3650 rpm top end, with the desired range at 3600-3800, so we're within specs. We had all assumed the 17 x 12 prop would need a major adjustment. It had previously been turned by the Yanmar 3QM30 with a top end around 2800. Our new Yanmar 3JH (38 h.p.) turns a lot higher.
The Yanmar rep I dealt with warned me that you can seriously damage an engine very quickly running it with an over-sized or over-pitched prop. Since our boat is 70 miles from the nearest haul-out yard (with lengthy channel and river runs at both ends), I had to contemplate pulling the prop where she lies. But since we made the specs, if it should turn out we want to shave an inch of pitch, I can wait for a haulout.
 
My diver/friend has pulled it off my 382 with no problem in the water. My 2 blade came right off with his puller.
 
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