Cutlass bearing ?

[runner911]

I'm after a little advice please.

I run a Merry Fisher 655 .

I recently renewed the cutlass bearing.

The gearbox and propeller shaft flanges were aligned as best I was able, and the shaft turned freely with the required amount of shaft " float " in the new bearing .

The shaft is water cooled, with a Volvo Penta rubber gland inboard from which I bled out the air.

Took the boat out for a trial this morning.

It seems to be running ok with no excessive vibration.

However when starting off from stationary for the first couple of seconds until the boat gets under way there is a slight squeaking noise which can only be coming from the new cutlass bearing.

Anyone any ideas why ?

 

[michaf]

As far as I can tell it's fine. The bearings need water flow to be effective. With speed water gets between the shaft and bearings and then the noise stops. If unsure after a few hours dive and try moving the shaft to see if the bearing has been worn. Premature wear is either due to misalignment or water flow restriction.