Gib’Sea 92 Shaft Dimensions - Replacing in situ at Mayflower Marina

[kerry1208]

Hi everyone,
I’m planning a bit of a surgical strike at Mayflower Marina (Plymouth) and could use some collective wisdom from any Gib’Sea 92 owners or those familiar with the mid-80s Gibert Marine builds.
The Project:
I need to replace my propeller and due to the fact the taper is not the standard spec (French 1:10) unfortunately I now need to replace the shaft!
Because of the cost of being out of the water, I am planning to have the new shaft machined, the prop is ready before the boat is lifted. I'm aiming to do the swap during a 1-hour "lift and hold" in the slings.
The Challenge:
The boat is currently in the water, so I can’t get a tip-to-tip measurement. Before I commit to the machine shop, I’m trying to verify the standard specs for the 92:
Shaft Diameter: I suspect 25mm (standard for the Volvo 2002 setup), but has anyone found an imperial 1" shaft on their 92?
Total Length: Does anyone happen to have a record of the overall length (coupling face to end of taper)?
Taper: this was not the usual spec french, rather 1:20
The "Rudder Drop": For those who have pulled the shaft on a 92, is it possible to slide it out past the spade rudder, or is a full rudder-drop mandatory?
I’ve got my calipers ready for the internal diameter, but if anyone has an old shaft sitting in their garage or a technical drawing hidden in a manual, your measurements would be a lifesaver.
Many thanks in advance,
Kerry

 

[PabloPicasso]

I would suggest that is not the best plan. Great if all goes well, but what is your plan B if not?

Especially with something so technical and exact as a matching a shaft taper.

Even if someone has the same boat same year and has the specs it won't garuntee its the same on your boat.

It may well be cheaper and quicker to do 2 lifts, or dry out somewhere to take the prop off and measure, etc....

An hour is not long in the slings to sort this out.

 

[MoodySabre]

It took an hour to get the prop off my boat so I agree that this not long enough. Getting the coupling undone can be fun on its own. It would sensible, even if not absolutely necessary, to change the cutless bearing at the same time. Measurements are critical.

 

[mrangry]

I replaced the prop and shaft on my 1992 Beneteau 440 and granted a different boat, however I had to drop the rudder partially to facilitate the shaft removal. I also replaced the cutless bearing whilst at it which was a pig to remove. I would definitely consider being in a cradle rather than a lift and hold as you often find these jobs end up with unforeseen issues.

I purchased a shaft from T Norris marine who were very knowledgeable when I spoke with them on the phone in this area.

 

[Stemar]

I purchased a shaft from T Norris marine who were very knowledgeable when I spoke with them on the phone in this area.

I got a prop from them, and found the same.

Incidentally, I'd be very surprised if they couldn't sort you out a prop with your taper. Give them a call.