Changing Cutless brgs

[Woody]

Is there a rule of thumb as to when they should be changed? I'm looking a boat with 2" shafts, the shaft can be moved in the brg by hand. I'd guesstimate play something in the range of .060", it's enough to feel it. My understanding is that new brg/shaft clearance is around .012".

 

[mjmason1]

In my opinion it's hard to gauge how much movement is acceptable. To me, if there is any play at all change them before launching. If you are looking at purchasing the boat and it is on the hard, make changing the brgs part of the deal. It's an easy process out of the water.

 

[fwebster]

The shaft rests on a rubber sleeve in the bearing. Rubber is resilient and has some give so you shouldn't feel any noticeable movement when you apply moderate pressure. If you lean on the shaft with your shoulder, you may see some movement but it should be no more than the rubber sleeve giving to the pressure.

If you haven't purchased the boat, put cut less bearings on the list of defects to be addressed.