dangerNever approach the shafts while they are rotating.
The propeller shaft is fastened to the gearbox by means of the flange coupling and is aligned on the three points represented by the gearbox, by a water-lubricated stuffing box seal and by the shaft support .
The stuffing box case includes a piece fixed to the hull and an adjustable piece. The adjustable piece is closed to the fixed one, in order to compress the seal, located inside the stuffing box case. It’s very important that the seal disposal is compressed, in order to avoid irregular pressures on the seal seat that might compromise life and efficiency of seal disposal. The outer shaft support includes a Neoprene bushing which uses the sea water as a lubricant.
Check it every season, as it might get worn quickly during cruising, especially in sandy waters. The bushing wear causes a vibrations increase.
When the yacht is on a sandbank, a good technician can easily consider, by moving the shaft, if the wear demands the replacement of the bushing.
dangerNever approach the shafts while they are rotating.
