bow thruster prop removal

[sparky]

Ok, we give up. We need to remove the bow thruster to ship back to Imtra (because a cross-threaded zinc screw messed up the tiny bit of metal used to capture the screw.....but that's another issue) but CANNOT get the propeller off to pull the motor out.

Any suggestions before we have to call in an expensive expert?

 

[Lobo]

You are not the first one to have a cross threaded screw on the bow thruster. I had one in 2008 -- my first haul out. I discussed this with Andrew Custis and as a result, Imtra sent me a new unit and I eventually gave Andrew the old one. I needed the new one before I removed the old one as I don't have a trailer. You can't float the boat with the impeller housing out of the boat. Reinstallation was easy -- just have a helper to hold it up into position and some 4200 caulking.

You've obviously removed the screw and whats left of your zinc. I recommend cutting a piece of 3/4" inch plywood into a unit looking like a long handled fork you would use on a BBQ and tap the prop off from the starboard side. It's just stuck -- but as you will be getting a new housing it doesn't matter whether you damage it or not. I don't believe they could rethread your unit -- there really isn't enough brass available at the spot. Your big concern is prop damage -- but Imtra could probably be kind enough to send you a new one if needed.

A couple of years ago at the Vancouver BC Boat Show I bought two 5-bladed props from the local Sidepower dealer. They are supposed to be kinder, gentler and give more push. I've had them on for 3 years and not sure of that claim. I now have lots of spare props though.

Dave
"Lobo"

 

[doke01]

I would assume you have taken the bolt off holding the prop also? I use a piece of wood that I insert between the prop blade and motor body so that when you turn the prop blade counter clockwise it stops turning when it meets the wood. Once it does I take a socket wrench with an extension and remove the bolt in the center of the prop, holding the wood so the prop does not turn. Sometimes you get barnacle build up and it is difficult to get to the bolt so you might have to use a narrow screw driver to remove them in order to get purchase. You should just be able to pull off the prop easily. There is no shearing pin for the prop. The shape of the prop itself acts as a shearing pin so you don't have to worry about losing one. I have never had a problem just pulling one off by hand. If you are having trouble removing it after the bolt is off you might need to follow Lobo's suggestion.

 

[sparky]

Thanks for the suggestions. Unfortunately that prop seems to be glued on! Having tried everything we could think of, looks like we'll have to call in the pros. Wouldn't mind calling them, just don't want to pay 'em! A suggestion was to just slice the plastic prop off and replace with a new one. Not at $75 for that little plastic wheel!

 

[kim&tim]

Just happened to read your posts regarding a cross threaded zinc screw.....we have discovered the same issue with our stern thruster.....I thought the diver "had the bends" but obviously not.....thanks for sharing this information.

Tim & Kim
R-29-Hermitage
Gibsons, B.C.