Shaft removal on CB 32+2

[Jakevc]

I have a 1996 32+2 with Cummins 6BTA 370 with a forward ZF V-Drive gear. I am getting ready to pull the engine to address a turbo flange leak and several other maintenance issues. I am also going to replace the seals on the Norscot dripless shaft seal.

Question: Does the rudder have to come off to remove the main shaft on the 32+2? Advice from anyone who has done this job is greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

[jmfernan]

Jake, yes- pretty simple job. Remove 4 bolts on bronze bottom rudder support, remove rudder shaft tiller arm, possibly loosen rudder stuffing box and it drops out. Solid bronze rudder so be prepared for the weight.

Good time to repack rudder stuffing if needed and cutlass bearing (check cutlass with shaft in for knocking/play). I added a small bilge sump (a fiberlassed box recessed into a hole cut into false bilge) while engine was out to collect minor bilge water and prevent shaft from flinging it around.
Joe
1999 32+2
Yanmar 6LY2-440

[Jakevc]

Thank you. Very helpful! Follow on question if you don’t mind. Once the shaft coupling and prop are removed is it possible to slide the shaft forward through the stern tube to replace the shaft bearings and dripless seals instead? There seems to be enough clearance forward of the engine.

Thank you again for your help!

[jmfernan]

I don't know if that would work. Dropping the rudder wasn't a big deal but does potentially open up 'while it's out' items- checking for crevice corrosion, shaft trueness, cutless, etc.

If you are pulling the engine+trans at the same time you'll probably need to back the shaft out past the rudder to free the trans. But if just pulling the engine perhaps your method would work. The sink/livewell assembly would have to be removed to pull the engine+trans as one unit. We were able to fit the Yanmar 6LY in/out without removing the sink/livewell but it was tight and required some tilting, I'd imagine the BTA would be similar.
Joe