I have an 09 Optimax 200 and I just noticed that my prop shaft is bent. Is it possible to put in a new prop shaft or am I looking at a new lower unit?
I have an 09 Optimax 200 and I just noticed that my prop shaft is bent. Is it possible to put in a new prop shaft or am I looking at a new lower unit?
You can have a new prop shaft put in, but if it is not bent bad it may be able to be fixed. I had mine straightend a few years ago by my mechanic.
2013 Z520C 250 Proxs
I do not recommend attempting to "straighten" propshafts. Seldom is the shaft "truely true".
Yes, a replacement propshaft can be fitted into the gearcase.
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
Don, to expand on the topic, what are the signs, other than a visual spin of the shaft, that you have a slightly warped shaft? Can the shaft be out of spec just slightly and the engine not vibrate badly and you'd not know?
Allison XB21 2+2, Merc 250 ProXS, 1.62 Sportmaster, Hydromotive Engineering X-OB 29
Excel 1751 Viper F4, Tohatsu 50 4-stroke, EZ-Trac trailer
FeelFree Lure 11.5 Kayak
To "feel" vibration, the warpage must be significant in most cases.
A good "field" check is to spin the prop in neutral. Focus ONLY on the "dimple" in the end of the propshaft.
If ANY movement or wobble of the dimple is perceivable with the "naked eye"... the shaft is likely out of spec (the general tolerance is .006"... which is REALLY hard to see with the naked eye).
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
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