How do I replace the cutless bearing on a Hallberg-Rassy 40?
I need to replace the cutless bearing on my Hallberg-Rassy 40 and would prefer to leave the propeller shaft in place. Does the bearing pull out from outside, and how do I check which stern-tube arrangement I have?
Answer
On a Hallberg-Rassy 40 with the composite/rubber stern-tube bearing construction introduced from 2007, remove the propeller, loosen the two Allen retaining screws, then grip the bearing's composite outer sleeve and rotate and pull it out. Support the propeller shaft throughout and identify the fitted bearing arrangement first, as an earlier boat or modified installation may need a different method.
Check the bearing construction
The stern-tube construction changed from 2007, so the year on the boat's paperwork is not enough to identify it. Check the hull number and inspect the exposed bearing end. If the construction is unclear, ask Hallberg-Rassy to confirm the arrangement against that hull number.
The later arrangement has a composite outer sleeve containing the rubber bearing, held by two Allen screws. Grip and withdraw that sleeve; the standard procedure leaves the shaft installed.
Earlier Hallberg-Rassy arrangements can have a rubber bearing in a bronze sleeve inside a removable bronze housing. Do not assume that instructions for an HR36, HR352 or HR42 apply to your HR40.
Before dismantling, gently lift the propeller end of the shaft and check for movement between shaft and bearing. Distinguish bearing clearance from movement of the whole housing. Look for uneven wear, which could indicate an alignment problem.
Prepare and support the shaft
Work ashore with clear access to the stern gear and the boat securely supported. Isolate the engine starting circuit and support the shaft before withdrawing the bearing, to avoid loading or damaging the gearbox output shaft.
Have these tools and specifications ready:
- The correct propeller puller and tools for its locking arrangement.
- Well-fitting Allen keys for both retaining screws.
- An adjustable padded support or sling for the exposed shaft.
- Suitable gripping tools for the old composite sleeve.
- Callipers and the replacement bearing specification.
Photograph the propeller locking parts, spacers, anodes and bearing position before removal. Folding and feathering propellers have their own dismantling sequences; follow the instructions for the fitted model.
Order the replacement by shaft diameter, sleeve outside diameter and overall length, preferably checked against the original part specification. Do not order on "HR40" alone: modifications and previous repairs can change what is fitted.
Remove the composite bearing
- Remove the propeller with the appropriate puller. Keep its key and locking components together.
- Position the shaft support so it carries the shaft without lifting it out of its natural alignment.
- Clean paint and fouling from the bearing end and locate both Allen retaining screws.
- Loosen both screws until their tips clear the sleeve.
- Grip the composite outer sleeve, rotate it to break its grip and pull it aft along the shaft.