Sail drive seals replacment:- is this a relatively simple job?

[sailingrbg]

I need to replace the seals on my sail drive and was going to replace the zinc anodes on the shaft as well, I am a bit mystified as to how to remove the feathering propeller. There appears to be two locking pins from either side of the shaft holding the propeller. I have notice additionally a very small Allen key screw on each side and was wondering if this released the feathering blades of the propeller? (there appears to be no way the locking pins unscrew)
Can anyone advise if replacing the sail drive seals is an easyjob to do myself or would it be better getting this done professionally ?

 

[gardenshed]

Did this job on A Bukh saildrive the weekend before last.
Feathering Prop: A Maxprop?
if so, go the the website
http://www.pyiinc.com/index.php?section=...lation&sn=5
and download the installation manual for a 2 or three bladed
Max prop.
Before dismantling, rotate the prop to "ahead" position and measure the blade angle accurately.
The anode gets removed from the aft end (3 x allen set screws). Each set screw should have a very small split pin inserted into the head to prevent it from rotating.
MG duff do replacement anodes for the max prop.
Remove the rear plate that holds the blades onto the hub and slide out the blades and their central location carrier.
the two halves of the main hub can now be seperated by removing the allen screws that hold this in position.
Once split, remove the central gear that determines blade angle.
With this dismantled, you are ready to remove the central hub from the shaft.
With the hub off and the remains of your old anodes removed, you can now drain the oil from the drive leg (well you could have done this right at the start)and then pull the aft face of the leg off to remove the prop shaft. Exactly which seals are needed at this stage depends on the type of leg but in may case, I had a complete set in hand (from Bukh) before I started. I had an engineer to assist the first time that I did this, but it was very straight forward and I'd be happy to do it myself any time again in the future.
Putting the prop back together is quite straightforward but remember to have the blades in the FEATHERED position when inserting them into the hub.
Total job took around 2 hours. I'd estimate 1:30 if doing it again. I also wouldn't skimp on the O rings and seals that can be replaced as the peace of mind for an extra few quid is invaluable.

 

[savageseadog]

You didn't say what make, Volvo, Yanmar or whatever

 

[snowleopard]

Also make of Prop. e.g. if it's Yanmar & flex-o-fold I can give you the details, if not I'd be guessing.