Before Posting, Please Read Our Posting Guidelines Below.
1. Use the full 4 digit year for everything you are asking your question about. Example: 1962, 1988, 2000, 2011 2. Include the correct name of your Whaler model. Example: Montauk 17, Montauk 170, Outrage 26, Outrage 260 3. Include the length when necessary. Example: 16, 17, 18, 20, 22 4. Do not post your email address anywhere on this site as it is already in your user profile.
Just wondering if thrust bushings wear out and what the signs are.
I had the prop off for minor repair and paint. It hasn't ever been done as far as I know. So, I got to wondering about the thrust bushing/bearing. Should these be replaced periodically? The bearing surfaces on it are well polished as you'd expect, and there is a bit of play when its mated to the prop.
Is that normal? What's the criteria?
It doesn't look like the prop has contacted the lower unit housing. So should I just leave it alone, or get a new one?
With a new prop, hub, thrust bearing and new engine, there was a small amount of play. I could slide the prop on the shaft a little, less that 1/8 inch I think. Don't know if the thrust bearing wears out. I'm of the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" school.
I winter in Ft. Myers and summer in St. Joseph, Michigan. It’s now about 12 years since I’ve joined this group. I gave my 1972 whaler to my daughter and sold the 17’. Bought an O’Day 28 sailboat and sailed on Lake Michigan. Yesterday I bought a 2005 130 Sport.
