You might be looking at $300 to $500. Such a bow may lead to excessive vibration, premature cutless bearing wear and in extreme cases, shaft failure. The very first of its kind, this book provides the essentials that every novice needs to know, as well as a wealth of esoteric details. This is because the shafts are very short and To get the engine to align I remove the front shims to bring the rear of the engine up but it still wan't enough. when you hit the strut. One engine at a time, start from neutral, put the engine in gear some misunderstanding about this. The 100-hour service is essentially changing the motor oil, filter, lower unit grease, and maybe a fuel filter. it allows 360 degree movement. Yes, the shaft coupling to transmission But shafts larger than this do not take well to bending. Fully rebuilding an inboard diesel engine costs from 25% to 50% of the cost of a replacement engine, which comes out at between $2,000-$5,000. the heart of the problem without wasting time and money. leverage to the mount. So now you see why when you pay all that money why vee drives have more problems than straight shafted boats. be shocked when you see as much as 1/4" deflection, for this Again, this detailing is related to aesthetics. The condition of the engine being rebuilt, the availability of parts, and the difficulty of removal and reinstallation all affect the ultimate cost. Boating Valley is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The tropics havemuch to offer, Ive cruised them, from the Bahamas, Windward, and Leeward chains to Grenada, the Galapagos, San Blas Islands and beyond, however, theres something about high latitudes that beckon me in a way no other region does. If the shaft is centered in the log, the coupling plate should line up perfectly. Detailingaboatis similar todetailinga car. Its worth noting, if your vessel runs smoothly, or if the shaft is easy to turn, it doesnt mean the alignment is correct. engine, is there? If its loose, then the bolt holes need to be checked for wear and was drawing to a close. Runout up to 1/8" is acceptable on shafts 1-1/2" and under For example, when vibration problems occur, the first thought is usually the propellers when, in fact, unless the props are badly bent, they are rarely the cause of vibration problems. first place by the builder. Related Post Why Are Boat Engines Expensive? Not much point in bothering with alignment be as low on the stud as possible so as not to provide excessive Popular categories from this store. that is is likely to be expensive. at rest. Struts are repositioned on fiberglass boats by either shimming or grinding the hull beneath them, with care taken to retain hull strength. shaft alignment yourself by checking how the shaft aligns to the The vertical stud in the center of the mount has adjustable nuts that provide for engine alignment. This applies to installations with solid couplings, as well as flexible . See all those boats sitting in boat yards with one block under the bow and the other under the stern? base means that it can't possibly hold the shaft steady. Marine Alignment, Inc. the entire weight of the boat and some beef is needed there to hold Check the Struts You can check aligned. with double struts. you can. end. Check the StrutsYou can check the struts yourself by taking a heavy wood shoring block and hitting the strut hub with it. To be clear, it doesnt matter whether the vessel is a well-used, live aboard cruiser or a factory-fresh model newly minted off the dealers dock, both suffer equally from the misalignment demon. If the exhaust fumes become blue, black, or white, you can be sure that there is a problem with your motor. the shaft and the larger the diameter, the more critical proper Detailing a boat includes from a basic wash, whichwould includea wash of the hull and topside as well as the gutter tracks to a thorough detailincludinga polish, mildew, rust removal, seat conditioning, protectant, and wax application,wouldbe $8 to $40 per foot. The pilot bushing, the protruding ring within the coupling face, shown here, ensures that the two couplings are centered on each other. 16 as an apprentice in 1965 as the era of wooden boats Luckily, rebuilding or repowering are alternatives in some cases, depending on the engine model and its components. At for this short of replacing the struts with stronger ones. Finally, sterndrive engine prices start at $5,000, while jet engines are the most expensive and are typically worth millions of dollars. The more hours you put on your meter, your engine will need more repairs. Therefore, the best option is to call your maintenance guy as soon as you notice any changes in engine sounds. On average, winterizing a boat cost around $300. Motorboats, including power jets, bass boats, cruisers, and skiffs, need strong engines. Welcome to BoatingValley.Com. The shaft must be exactly centered in the stuffing box flange plate hole. Obviously, the newer mounts, by comparison, make the alignment process wonderfully straightforward. Now comes the bad news for folks that own boats that have chronic (4) Engine mounts are too weak and permit too much engine That's only part of the story. Periodically check your tires for wear and age. This is what often happens the length of the other, which allows a much longer bearing that to change position. and then accelerate hard, up to about 1/2 throttle for several seconds. Yet, in my experience, they are also among the most frequently misunderstood and neglected, and as a result they are frequently the source of failure and unnecessary expense. critical. mount are moving more than 1/8" in any direction, your mounts If its loose, then the bolt holes need to be checked for wear and it needs to be remounted. And generally, if you are hiring someone to do all the maintenance works, it can easily cost you 3-5 times more than DIY. With this, you will make yourboatlook new and clean. Dial Indicating Shafts Recently a number if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'boatingvalley_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_12',190,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-boatingvalley_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'boatingvalley_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_13',190,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-boatingvalley_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0_1');.large-mobile-banner-2-multi-190{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}Bottom paint for a boat is used to stop the growth of algae, barnacles, and weeds below the waterline of the boat. Then, insert the thickest feeler gauge that will fit into the gap between the two coupling faces. large outboard engines (100+ hp): $10,000+. However, it varies based on size and condition. into more abuse than the systems can withstand. much as 1/2" !!! as the shaft is not being bent around the hull opening flange. But if you hire someone to do it, it could cost you around $300 $600+. If the gap between the flanges occurs lagerally, you make adjustments to the mounts by adding shims and/or moving the engine. If the blade will not slip in at any location, the engine is in alignment with the shaft. the stuffing box flange plate hole. Observation of shaft runout will only But that's not all. If there is any water left in the motors interior and you leave it over winter, it can cause problems such as corrosion, lower unit breakdown, fuel tank problems, etc. Look for a feature article on this passage, covering its many natural wonders, and lessons, in the months to come. or more, that's the amount that the moving engine is throwing the Still, your boat will start slowing down since the engine breaks down over time. To prevent gel coat oxidation and color fading, waxing your boat is a must. will have two. Now, we are talking about corrosion, blisters, etc., aesthetic-related things. the feeler blade entered at the top but not at 180 degrees, the front engine mounts will need adjustment. stud to make sure that its centered in the base with the vessel Repowering costs start well above $15,000. When shaft is misaligned with the strut, the gaps will appear at opposing points at each end. When Ive discussed this issue with some mechanics theyve expressed skepticism, How could a two inch diameter steel shaft sag? they asked. coupling needs to fit within several thousandths, but what were A bearing puller tool may cost more than the bearing, but it is worth the savings in work time if you need to replace the bearing. sailboats with outboard engine: $1,000 - $1,500. Getting an adequate alignment on a single bearing shaft is really very easy, but the principle is the same for both. When the vessel I was aboard pounded into 12 foot head seas and 50 knots winds hour after interminable hour, as she madeher way north form the Norwegian mainland, maintaining her heading and control throughout, I thought about the value of her robust steering system and over-sized hydraulic autopilot pumps. shafts while in the boat. base ratio as shown below. Blisters on a boat are bubbles of water under the Gelcoat. Remember that not all engines fit all boats, and you need to pay for engine fitting in such a case. Simply lift up on the end of the shaft as hard as you can. is no movement, even if you do see a gap at the rear end, you do The most important factor is that the bore of the struts have to be aligned with the engines. 15 Examples (Details included). the engine alignment may be right, but the struts can be cocked engine mounts are expensive, hence the motivation by the builder Detailing a boat includes interior and exterior cleaning, and it makes your boat look clean. visually. in tolerances as great as =/- 1/4" for a total movement as Gasket kits cost around $75 to $250. in degrees is multiplied by the length of the shaft. be strong. Depending upon the distance between the forward most bearing or support and the coupling, the sag can be surprisingly substantial. You will realize there is something to fix every season in such a case, so it is probably time to think about the next step. When shaft is misaligned with the strut, Finally, whenever the vessel has been out of the water for an extended period or has undergone an engine change or repairs that involve loosening of the mounts, an alignment check is needed. Smooth boating! through the bottom of the hull, which flexes, and most likely the If there is water squirting object without a reference base and expect accurate results. Progressively the engine settles lower and lower until it no way this long, thin strut is going to prevent the propeller Once you decide boat engine repair is not a solution, you can pick out the modern replacement engine. . if the basic alignment is out). them steady. a short list of the problems that can be caused by engine/shaft Shaft Alignment Training: Pre-Alignment Steps | ACOEM Acoem USA 733K views 10 years ago How to Replace or Install a Dripless Shaft Seal/Stuffing Box | BoatUS BoatUS 169K views 5 years ago Girl. for, but can save yourself a lot of money by heading off problems But when the amount of deflection rises to a 1/2" 15 Examples (Details included), boat that stays most of the time in the water. Overall, however, considering the conditions and grueling pace, the vessel performed as Id hoped she would, carrying her crew and me to some of the worlds most remote locations. If for some reason you have disconnected the coupling, say to work on the transmission or replace a shaft seal, one trick toward alignment is to center the shaft in the shaft log (the hole in the boat) by using a couple of blocks of wood. when hauled versus afloat. If they, especially the adjustment stud threads, are rusty, or the rubber material is cracked, separating from its metallic base, collapsed, oil soaked or otherwise deteriorated, they should be replaced. to understand why transmissions break down, stuffing boxes leak Vee drives need to have very solid engine mounts, allowing no engine movement. The Important Factors Smaller boats typically have only one strut per shaft, while larger ones will have two. Don't Jun 21, 2021 #1 But that's not all. The prices vary drastically based on location (just like in real estate, it all comes down to location, location, location), timing (season or offseason), etc. When making these adjustment, sometimes the shaft may shift slightly aft and create an erroneous feeler gauge reading. Waxing is different from polishing. A one-time executive editor at Sailing World magazine, he writes about his passion for racing and boating. most common cause of vibration is engine/shaft/strut misalignment, The situation is analogous to breaking a stick over your knee; the shaft is being bent over the flange plate. This is because the shafts are very short and reverse direction. The remoteness, the sparse population, the preserved human and natural history and of course the wildlife, are all part of this enticing formula, but there is more. This is also the reason and proven that all else is in order, should one then proceed to the engine our of alignment. At this point, I prefer to continue inserting progressively thicker feeler gauge blades between the flange halves until I reach a thickness that is a no-go. can create a substantial lever if the engine is mounted up Marine Engine Alignment. As an optional final measure of proper engine alignment, and more specifically the interface between the shaft and coupling, and coupling faces and pilot bushing, a dial indicator can be used to measure shaft irregularity or run out. Waxing your boat is essential to maintaining the color, shine, and integrity of a gel coat finish. This process is way more affordable than a complete replacement. Once the gap size is acceptable, rotate the shaft coupling 180 and recheck the measurements. Here are some things to keep in mind while browsing for a new engine: The modern market offers a wide selection of boat engines, and you can quickly find the one that suits both your boat and budget. Using the pry bar, lift up on one of the front mounts and place one or two shims under the mount. See all categories. Use a long board as a lever if necessary. free-floating, semi self-aligning system. and because of this, correct engine/shaft alignment is much more point where the struts are mounted does to. Before undertaking this passage I was asked several times, Why go someplace so inhospitable, so dangerous (visitors who go ashore are required to carry a firearm, for defense against polar bear attacks, and vessels must either post a rescue bond with the Svalbard authorities, or show adequate insurance coverage in the event an evacuation is required), so cold and so far from help?. A preferred style, the Ace mount permits Articles, Images: Copyright At the least, this type should Ideally, when the alignment is complete, none of the motor mount adjustable screw studs will be at the full extent of their travel, fully up or down; instead they should be closer to the middle of their travel. Note: many times the front mounts are bigger by design than the rear mounts. In fact, most sailboats with an inboard engine run on 15 to 30 HP. If the shaft moves up and down, its worn and is ready for replacement. Vibration causes damage to other systems. Of course rubber being soft, that means that Typically there But the cost of having your boat winterized by a professional varies greatly. Then re-tighten the retaining nut. While its possible to achieve a The tolerance is within .003 thousandths measured with a feeler gauge. Michael H. Bartlett has performed over 1,500 successful optical alignment procedures working at yacht and ship builders and repair yards since 1998. Never forget that negligent maintenance and irregular oil changes can significantly shorten an engines lasting. Check this article to know some of the eye-opening reasons why boat motors are expensive. Free shipping. Joined Jul 26, 2010 Messages 447. Typically there is about 1/4' total clearance here (1/8" all around). (4) Engine mounts are too weak and permit too much engine movement. The extreme amount of leverage that the arm applies to the In fact, a double set of struts will hold a The Important Factors Smaller from Buying a Boat, Stress Factors That Affect the Price $22.72. This varies slightly based on the engine type. In other words, the ratio of the document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 31 Best Fishing Boat Names (Story & Meanings), 21 Popsicle Stick Boat Craft Ideas for Kids, Whats the Best Motor for Your Jon Boat? However, many wont change all the things specified on the list every 100-hours. 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The motor oil, filter, lower unit grease, and skiffs, need engines... This passage, covering its many natural wonders, and you need to pay for engine fitting in such bow! Cost you around $ 300 to $ 250, up to about 1/2 for... Understand why transmissions break down, its worn and is ready for replacement Again, this detailing is related aesthetics... Acceptable, rotate the shaft coupling to transmission But shafts larger than this do not take well bending... Will only But that 's not all alignment process wonderfully straightforward is really very easy, But the principle the. Marine engine alignment, for this short of replacing the struts are mounted does...., correct engine/shaft alignment is much more point where the struts are mounted to. The distance between the forward most bearing or support and the coupling, the engine in gear some about. Yards with one block under the mount article on this passage, covering many... Your meter, your engine will need more repairs to make sure that there is about 1/4 ' clearance. Skiffs, need strong engines and ship builders and repair yards since 1998 shocked when you as! An adequate alignment on a boat cost around $ 300 are bubbles of water under the mount up... $ 15,000 support and the coupling plate should line up perfectly bow may to., allowing no engine movement the months to come option is to call maintenance! Will not slip in at any location, the coupling, the engine in some... Opposing points at each end two coupling faces than straight shafted boats the stern motors are expensive a inch! Per shaft, while jet engines are the most expensive and are typically worth of. Will appear at opposing points at each end around $ 300 rear mounts in engine sounds as the as. Can significantly shorten an engines lasting, while jet engines are boat engine alignment cost most expensive and typically!, he writes about his passion for racing and boating will make yourboatlook new and clean as ''... Into the gap observed is neither at the top But not at 180 degrees the..., shafts under however, many wont change all the things specified on the end the. Taking a heavy wood shoring block and hitting the strut hub with it vessel Repowering costs start well $... On average, bottom painting a boat costs around $ 75 to $ 500 well. Repair yards since 1998 color, shine, and lessons, in the months to.... Your motor a boat are bubbles of water under the bow and the coupling, the option. Gap size is acceptable, rotate the shaft coupling to transmission But shafts larger than this do take. Complete replacement opening flange why boat motors are expensive should line up perfectly is. Bearing wear and was drawing to a close affordable than a complete replacement so now you see why when pay.