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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?

Thanks.

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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.

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Thanks. You are probably right. I was just looking at it since I was down there cleaning the old grease, etc. off and got to wondering about it.