I noticed at the end of the season that I was getting some vibration and a little grumbling noise while underway with the engine. Checked the shaft for play after the boat came out of the water and got more play then I liked.. Compared it with other boats parked next to me and confirmed that the old bearing is worn out and needs replacement.
Never having replaced he strut bearing, I dreaded the thought of pulling the shaft and that goes with that exercise. But then I saw there is a way to remove and replace the bearing from the strut without removing the shaft using a bearing extractor. I have only found 2 sources extractors. One that someone makes exclusively for Catalinas... and one made by StrutPro but costs about $400!!! Seems like there is only about $25 of material and maybe $75 - $100 of labor in making one, so quite a markup! I'd rather do this myself instead of paying the yard... *(too many unhappy experiences with boat yard staff and, if I am going to be unhappy with the job.. might as blame myself)* so.... what do C&Cers do? Any ideas on sourcing an extractor? Worst case... I know of someone I could ask to make an extractor... but it may be somewhat trial and error to get it right. Thanks for your thoughts! Jim S/V Strong Tower 1977 C&C 29 Mk 1 North East MD
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