Bow Thruster Blade Removal

[Bobby P.]

Good thing I have a good sense of humor about things.

My snubber line went overboard. My bow thruster ate it. Well, most of it.

After extracting the line I had to change the blown fuse. When I used it next, it sounded...odd.

Seems I broke a blade of the thruster prop.

Can this be replaced externally on the trailer? I am hopping that I don't have to remove the thruster motor from the inside of the boat.

Anybody replace a blade?

Thanks,
Bobby

 

[Red Raven]

Yes, it is easy to replace on the trailer. You’ll need a hex wrench (can’t remember what size) and two pieces of 1x2x12” wood and a hammer. Remove the hex bolt and give it a tug. If it doesn’t come free insert the two pieces of wood on the opposite side of the boat (back side of prop). Set each piece of wood against the opposing blades of the prop. Give it a tap or two and and it should come free.

Good luck.

Curt

 

[BB marine]

I use a similar method to Curt. I have a 5/8" oak dowel rod 1' long that I slide in between the blades and use the gear housing to lock the prop from turning. I use a 9/16" or 1/2" socket (can't remember and I did this last week) with an extension and ratchet (1/4) drive to loosen the nut. ( there is a thin flat washer behind the nut) Once the nut is off a light tap on the hub of the prop with the 5/8" dowel rod will loosen the prop from the shaft if it has been removed previously. If it has not been it may take a bit more persuasion. Tap on the lip of the hub then rotate 1/4 turn continue to do this until it comes loose. In your case you don't have to be to careful because the prop is damaged and being replaced. When you install the new prop confirm the shaft is clean and apply a small amount of grease on the shaft. The next time you have to remove the prop it will come off easier. I remove the props from the bow and stern thrusters each time replace the anodes. I clean the shaft and apply a thin layer of grease and reinstall.