R31 Thrusters

[Bill Wahl]

Have broken several shear pins on the thrusters. Is there a stronger pin than the brass that comes stock on the thrusters?

 

[coreychamness]

I wouldn't think you would want them stronger. Sort of like setting ski bindings too tight.

 

[PhilR]

They are designed to shear when excessive stress is put on the thrusters. You may want to consider when and how you use them. I treat them like they are made of glass......5 years and no problems, yet they do the job. Actually, I live in fear that they will break, and I'll be adrift for days waiting for the perfect breeze that will ease me into my dock slip.

Phil

 

[Irish Mist]

If the pins are a clean break then they are doing their job.. If however the pins are tapered and broken with a lot of filings inside when you remove the motor there is an alignment problem.. If this is the case check the two bolts you see inside after you remove the motor, these hold the gear leg to the boat.. As well make sure when you reinstall the motor that those bolts are tight.
Good luck

 

[Barry Cohen]

I wouldn't use them beyond a speed of 3 knots.

 

[knotflying]

Also, If there is a lot of wave action and the bow is bouncing causing the thruster to bounce out of the water and then back in, the sudden submersion in the water will cause the pin to shear. Basically the thrusters are for docking in light winds and current in calm water with no debris around. In other words practice maneuvering the boat without thrusters.

 

[carlastr]

Anyone have a name of someone around Lake Union in Seattle that can fix stern thursters? We think we sheared a pin. Bummer but part of the learning!