Sail drive gaiter

[mdonnelly]

Engine is out at last so am thinking could get boat out on slings for a weekend and replace the gaiter around the saildrive. Is this difficult/feasable in a couple of days? Has anyone done this and if so what is involved? Many thanks for advice.

 

[bigwow]

http://www.printontwerp.nl/friendshipclub/plaatjes/saildrive0.jpg

 

[ashanta]

I have done this for my 2002 seven years ago and it's now got to be replaced this year because the insurers and surveyors stae that the manufacturers recommendation is to exchange them (Volvo) every seven years. The seal and ring are in perfect condition as was the one replaced seven years ago. There is no record of any seal failing at sea.
In my case it's a big job to do and the engine has to be removed and brought into the cabin for the work to be done.
I have the Volvo engineer actually fit the seal to SD leg and boat for the guarantee, I do all the donkey work in removing and replacing the engine.
It's a good time to clean, repaint the engine etc and the engine compartment etc. Also ensure gearbox oil is OK if looking creamy nows the chance to change the SD oil seal.

 

[dod]

You need to specify the make of saildrive. However as the engine is already removed and presumably you now have good access, removing the saildrive and renewing gaiter is not difficult. Did it last winter on Volvo 120s and had no experience. Yes still afloat.

 

[PeterGibbs]

There are loads of previous posts covering this subject. You will profit by reading them.

It is a DIY job, but you will probabaly have to release the engine mounts, block up the engine and slide it forward 1-2 inches to allow the S leg to tilt back and release from the drive shaft, before lifting the S leg into the engine compartment.

Take the opportunity to check any seals on the back of the engine and replace as a precaution.

IF there is any taint in the S leg oil, replace the drive seals at the bottom of the S leg - also a DIY job.

A full weekend should do it. Get the parts from Keypart of Kings Langley - good advice and Volvo parts at more reasonable prices.

PWG

 

[bigwow]

Sorry wrong link last time. This is the one

http://www.printontwerp.nl/friendshipclub/saildrive.html