Off Centre Prop shaft

[rwakeham]

I have just had a boat surveyed today and noticed that the prop shaft was really very off centre. Below hopefully are photos of the shaft and the P bracket. One side of the bracket is proud of the hull, the other it is embedded. Is this normal ?

Thanks

 

[chiefeng]

The only reason the prop shaft would be off centre is to let the shaft be withdrawn without removing the rudder. If there are no cracks crazing or if you know the history of the boat I wouldn't be too worried. I do believe some Moody's have an off centre shaft
Rgds
Bob

 

[vyv_cox]

As chiefeng says, this is quite normal to allow prop and shaft removal. On my Sadler the prop will pass the rudder skeg, at which point it is about 3 inches out of axial line.

 

[chiefeng]

I should of added that you need to check the drive train and the engine mounting arrangements and ensure they are all properly aligned to one another.
Rgds
Bob

 

[yogi]

Another reason for an offset propshaft is an attempt to minimize prop walk, although from the pictures in this case it is not offset enough to matter