Grinding noise in forward gear not in reverse

[poultey]

Recently aquired a Moody 31 Mk II and noticed a not-allarming but noticeable grinding sound when in gear on the pontoon. This noise goes away entirely in reverse. Volvo Penta with P bracket and rope-cutter fitted. Has a brand new cutlass bearing. Any thoughts would be welcome.

 

[AntarcticPilot]

I'd suspect the rope cutter. I have the same boat and engine without a rope cutter.

 

[rotrax]

Me too! I suspect the rope cutter needs more clearance. When it is in ahead, the prop pushes the shaft forward.

 

[Tranona]

While it may be the rope cutter it is unlikely if it ia a Stripper and has been properly installed following the instructions to leave a 15mm gap between the cutter and the P bracket. Unlikely to move on its own. If it is a disc type cutter, again there should be the 15mm gap, but they are less secure as some rely on just a grub screw to hold in place.

 

[Leslie frank]

My ambassador stripper has a plastic spacer.. like a big thin washer. It wears over time which can allow the blades to catch in ahead... could be your problem. If so then ambassador sell a cheap service kit. Easy job worth doing in any event