Roar from transmission area after hitting rock bar

8122pbrainard wrote: desertskier wrote: Run it on the trailer in gear and watch the shaft spin. If it's bent you will probably see it . NG, Wow, you eye's must be better than mine. I have to use a dial indicator to detect the allowed .003" run out!!

Not just my eyes!

Thanks I was hoping I was right. Ok it's a 54" shaft. Is there anywhere or any links anyone knows of to properly install the packing or bushing??

I will post pix and a video from my pc this evening. I can't do it from my phone for some reason.

This shaft is wobbling by hand from the top end. I but I don't know if it's bc the packing is bad or if it's bent. I can't press this shaft housing off so I think I might cut the shaft and just replace the housing too. Thoughts???

Why do you disconnect the rudder to remove the drive shaft?

The shaft coupler can be disconnected at the transmission if that is what you are asking. There are two flanges that face each other at the tail end of the transmission (one stays on the transmission and one on the shaft) - there are 4 bolts set 90 degrees apart. Remove the bolts and the two flanges can be separated.

It's an '86 model so I only have liability insurance on it. Obviously a bad decision. Does the shaft come apart or in two at the bushing under my back seat? Or will my shaft be one continuous shaft from prop to trans???

Run it on the trailer in gear and watch the shaft spin. If it's bent you will probably see it. Spray some water on the bushing to lubricate it. Don't ask how I know this. And as mentioned call your insurance if you need repairs. I got an ARE shaft, 4 blade prop, tunable rudder, steering cable, strut mount and bushing all for my $250 deductible.

Sorry to hear about your accident with the rock. There are not many people that have operated boats for any length of time that have NOT hit a submerged object of some type. Couple of thoughts here - 1) do you have a dial indicator and know how to use it ? 2) do you have insurance - if so - this is a good time to file a claim and let a professional work on it.   Potentially bent shafts / struts need precise measuring tools to evaluate - probably can't eyeball it unless it's really bad. You might also disconnect the shaft coupler at the transmission, crank the engine and engage the transmission to see / hear if the transmission make the same noise - if yes you know the roar is in the transmission. If no, that's good news and you can focus on the shaft and strut.

Yes the rudder is bent some but I only had minimal tightness in the steering when I drove it back to the ramp.

So should I uncouple and pull the shaft out from the bottom?

Can anyone help me diagnose this issue? I was running about 20 MPH and hit a rock bar in the middle of the river (go ahead and laugh). My nav went from 80' to 5' instantly and the boat came to a complete stop. I replaced my prop and straightened my fins but there is still vibration and a roar coming from trans flange area. I can not see any damage to the shaft inside or under the boat or to the strut when I turn it by hand. Can someone help with steps for process of elimination? Even if I could afford a boat mechanic, they're ALL 4 to 5 weeks behind in my area.