Checking propshaft

[dignity]

As mentioned on previous post I've just purchased a Freeman 33 sports, on the starboard engine there's a shudder when in gear, I've got a feelingmountings are shot, but also I suspect the shaft maybe bent, what's the easiest way to check both the mountings, and the shaft for straightness, the boat is getting transported next week so I don't want to launch it with a bent shaft!

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[gonfishing]

hi paul
ideally you should use a DTI (dial test indicator ) as used by engineers etc to test the shaft for any deflections, the engine mounts are a little harder, as you will only be able to visually check them, however, if they have gone it is likely they are the cause of the vibration and will also give the impression that shaft is bent because of excess movement, at this stage i would choose the mounts as priority, look for any splitting /cracking, if you can physically get a hand on them feel them to see if they have gone soft/brittle i would have a look at new ones so that you can do a visual comparison, i would also check the stern gland as any excess movement on the shaft can cause ovalation of the stern gland if the engines have been run on a prolonged basis with the mounts gone which can lead to sterngland problems. There that's cheered you up no end hasn't it ???
hope this helps
julian

<hr width=100% size=1>WHAT??? more petrol!!!