How do I remove and refit the drive seal on an Albin Vega 27?
My Albin Vega 27 is out of the water for the winter and I need to replace the rubber seal on the drive. It's been dripping a bit too much underway. What is the correct sequence to remove the old one and fit the new seal without damaging it?
Answer
The Albin Vega 27 features a conventional propeller shaft rather than a saildrive, meaning you must replace the inboard rubber shaft seal, typically a Volvo Penta dripless gland. To do this, disconnect the shaft from the engine coupling, slide it aft until clear of the old seal, fit the greased replacement over the shaft, and reattach the coupling.
Freeing the Propeller Shaft
If your Vega retains the original variable pitch Combi drive coupled to an O21 petrol or MD6A diesel, the sealing arrangement sits inside the pitch control mechanism and requires specialist rebuilding. The vast majority of Vegas have been repowered with engines like a Beta 14 or Volvo Penta D1-13 and converted to a standard 25mm fixed shaft, which this guide covers.
Access behind the engine on a Vega is notoriously tight. Clear out the cockpit locker to give yourself maximum reaching room. Ensure the boat is safely chocked ashore. Place a block of wood behind the propeller so the shaft cannot slide out entirely and drop. You first need to separate the shaft from the gearbox coupling.
Undo the four bolts holding the two halves of the coupling together. These usually have 14mm or 17mm heads. Slide the shaft aft by hand. If it refuses to budge, the shaft is likely seized inside the coupling bore. Remove the locking grub screws or retaining nut. Hook a bearing puller over the coupling flange and push against the end of the shaft. Applying mild heat from a hot air gun to the coupling helps expand the metal. Keep the heat away from the fibreglass hull and fuel lines.
Removing the Old Gland
Once the shaft is slid back roughly 150mm, you have enough clearance to tackle the seal. Loosen the two stainless steel Jubilee clips securing the old rubber seal to the bronze stern tube. Grip the seal and twist it firmly to break the watertight grip. Pull it forward off the tube and slide it off the end of the shaft.
Inspect the bare bronze stern tube. It must be absolutely clean and smooth for the new seal to seat properly. Use 400-grit emery cloth to gently polish away hard water scale, verdigris, and old sealant. Wipe the tube down with a clean rag and a splash of acetone.
Installing the New Seal
Most Vegas use the Volvo Penta rubber stuffing box (part number 828254 for a standard 25mm shaft and 42mm stern tube), costing around £90 to £110. Do not attempt to slide the bare rubber seal over the shaft splines or keyway. The sharp edges will instantly slice the delicate inner lips.