Robert,
Don't really know about the shaft but I do know that removing the rudder is not a big deal.
I've removed mine several times.
So long as you have clearance under the rudder that is even with the bottom of the keel you will have plenty of room. Just remember to block the rudder up so it does not fall and hit the ground hard. Just remove the rudder cap, remove lock ring under rudder cap, and loosen the bolts around lower bearing it should drop out. Oh yes it may need some persuasion (hammer on top of post).
Good Luck,
Bill
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-j35@sailpix.com [mailto:owner-j35@sailpix.com]On Behalf Of
Robert Gordenker
Sent: Wednesday, January 24, 2001 10:59 AM
To: j35@sailpix.com
Subject: Prop shaft removal???
Hey Skippers,
Has anyone removed their propshaft and been able to do it without dropping the rudder? I am suspecting that my shaft is bent and want to check it. I think that if I can get the forward end to clear the exit hole from the hull before the aft end hits the leading edge of the rudder, the cutlass bearing will twist enough to sneak the shaft past the rudder. Anyone have any hints or suggestions for me????
If I do need to drop the rudder, how far above the ground must the lower bearing be in order to for the top of the rudder post to clear the hull before bottoming out on the ground???.
--
Regards,
Robert Gordenker
TIME MACHINE, J/35 #134
North Cape Yacht Club
Lake Erie
gordenk@engin.umich.edu
rgordenk@eecs.umich.edu
Received on Wed Jan 24 08:39:59 2001