Shaft Seal - Tides Marine

[Boatingfool]

Had the pleasure of going through two back-to-back 14/15ft waves the other week which played a little havoc. Now I have a leaky shaft seal.

Has anyone changed the shaft seal when in the water? Boat has the Tides marine sure/stong seal with spare. The video on their website makes it look straight forward, so I was wondering if anyone has done this and if it really that straight forward?

Thanks,

 

[tobnpr]

Haven't done the seal change-out, but why do you think a couple of rogue waves caused the failure? Unless there's a loose motor mount or strut I wouldn't see a connection?

 

[Boatingfool]

Haven't done the seal change-out, but why do you think a couple of rogue waves caused the failure? Unless there's a loose motor mount or strut I wouldn't see a connection?

Happened moments thereafter, the entire assembly came loose in the silicone boot and spun. I believe a combination of the flex/strees of the situation and the worm clamps which hold the assembly (which were only finger tight, probably like that from day one).

 

[tobnpr]

When my (formerly) 390 was hauled for the survey and bottom job a couple of weeks ago, the surveyor was talking to the yard owner about a Silverton aft cabin that was up on the blocks. Turns out it took on water and nearly sank due to a failed Tides seal. Apparently the internal bearings on it seized, and the silicone hose literally ripped to shreds from the spinning shaft. Not knocking them as I've had them without issues as many others have, just disturbing to hear about it.

FYI- Tides is discontinuing support for the Strong Seal as of the end of the year. If you have that model, instead of the newer Sure Seal, you might want to stock up on spare seals...

 

[Boatingfool]

Great advise, I will check with them on the availability of the seals next time I call them.

Fortunatley the silicone didn't rip on mine, I could only imagine what the water intrusion would have been like with the 3"...