Bravo 3 propeller removal

skibum

skibum

Well-Known Member
Jul 30, 2007
2,769
Perry Hall, MD
Boat Info
2005 Sundancer 260
Engines
496 Magnum HO
Ok, so I checked with every marine supply and parts dealer in the phone book. Not a single one sells a prop wrench for a BIII. Miller's Island Propeller gave me the name of a few places to try. One of them said that I didn't need a special wrench because I should be able to use "regular" tools to get the props off. I asked if I needed an extra deep socket or anything like that, and he said "No.". He offered no other explanation other than "Just take the first one off, and you'll see.".

So, before I go off to the marina to "see", can someone tell me exactly what tools I will need?

Thanks!
Michael
 
Marinemax has the tool and you will definately need it to remove the BIII props. I also see them on ebay from time to time. It's just a Big-a$$, deep socket. I bought mine from MM, was about $60. Also, you'll need a long bar wrench, 1/2" if I recall. A pneumatic gun won't work on that big of a socket - the gun will pound the hell of the socket and the prop nut won't move.
 
gerryb said:
...<snip>It's just a Big-a$$, deep socket. <snip>...
Click to expand...

How deep? 2"? 3"? 6"?

I can get 2-3/4" sockets, and I already have both 1/2" and 3/4" drive breaker bars (I'm not that big, I need all the leverage I can get). Sockets this big get expensive, and I just want to make sure to buy the minimum depth socket that I need for the inner prop nut. Every extra inch costs $.

I read the thread that you linked to Wes, but it didn't answer my question, which might need to be re-written as "If I'm using "regular" tools, as opposed to the specialty Bravo Three prop wrench, what sizes and depths would my sockets need to be?". Clear case of not asking exactly what I wanted to know. :smt021

Michael
 
skibum said:
How deep? 2"? 3"? 6"?
Click to expand...

Not sure exactly... but it is definately longer than 6" I would estimate 10" or so..


(Geez... that sounds kind of funny after reading it myself...?.. but still very accurate of course...:lol:)
 
'Nuff said guys... Ordered the stupid wrench from properthing.com this afternoon.

Thanks,
Michael
 
skibum said:
I read the thread that you linked to Wes, but it didn't answer my question, which might need to be re-written as "If I'm using "regular" tools, as opposed to the specialty Bravo Three prop wrench, what sizes and depths would my sockets need to be?". Clear case of not asking exactly what I wanted to know. :smt021

Michael
Click to expand...

It answered the question, just took you a while to figure out that was the way to go. :thumbsup:
 
I just removed the props from my Bravo III 2 weeks ago. I bought the socket from Marine Max. I also bought a 1 and 7/16 socket for the other nut. I bought this one at Sears but found it at auto store for $10 cheaper a week later. I used hitch grease to lube spline.

Slap Shot
2002 Sea Ray 210 Sundeck
5.0L 260 Hp w/BIII Drive
moz-screenshot-1.jpg

125_2565.JPG
moz-screenshot.jpg
 
What size is the outer propeller nut? I bought a prop wrench but I guess it is for the inner prop nut.
 
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Todd, I guess I will order from that website. I tried to find one locally and no one has it.

Edit:: Todd, they are fantastic, spoke with Gary and he will be shipping out the prop wrench today. Great referral!

As far as what really happened, I do not know yet. The dockmaster was not working today so I will talk to him tomorrow. They are going to file a report and then will take a look out there. The marina that I launch from, it is the marina that my department operates in our county department.

I'll give an update once I hear from them
 
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i have an 04 280 , B3 , dual propset ,
rear nut is 1 7/16" , sears socket (1 1/4 "deep , 3/4 drive , about $ 18)
fwd nut is 2 3/4 " ( bought a used crows foot 1/2 " drive @ a used tool store $ 20 )
adapt to 1/2 " drive breaker bar as neccessary .
Cancel that "prop" wrench !!!
 
Too late. I get the prop wrench tomorrow. I'd want to have less tools to keep on the boat.
 
I just got my prop wrench delivered to my door today. Here are the pics including the removal of the props.


Can anyone tell me how to clean the spline? Do I just use a paper towel and clean off the rusted color part?

DSC00689.jpg


DSC00688.jpg


DSC00692.jpg


DSC00694.jpg
 
Man, that is a nice wrench.
(you know you dont want to make life too easy)
I used the biggest adjustable channel locks I had to handle the rear nut on the bravo three. Not correct but, in a pinch works.:)
 
Yes, I have to agree that it's a great wrench. I have to thank Todd (Nahalennia) for the reference.

It was way too easy to remove the prop.
 
Quick note: I have a brand new "Proper thing" Bravo III wrench that I'd like to sell. It has never been used. Bought it from properthing.com for $60 and then sold my 260. I'll sell it for $45 + $10 for shipping (USPS). PM me if you're interested. I also have a spare set of Bravo III props.
 
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Hey guys, I got my props back and reinstalled it. I have a quick question regarding the installation. For the outer nut, once it stopped turning, I stopped at that point. However, when i move the props with my hand, the props get stuck sometimes. It's as if there's too close together or something. I've taken it out and reinstalled it again and cant figure out what the problem is.

Any ideas?


Edit....I found a metal o ring that was on the prop. I put it in between the inner prop nut and the outer prop. It made a somewhat significant difference. I ran the props and it sounds like it is making a smooth grinding noise. I suppose there is supposed to be no noise correct? Does anyone have a metal o ring in their bravo 3? If so, I will need to buy a new one as the one I have now does not fit properly.
 
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