REPLACING LEWMAR GEARCASE-110TT BOW THRUSTER MOUNTING SADDLE

[Nickc]

I finally got the replacement bow thruster gearcase & Propeller (about 1month). This is a follow up to question to those who have done removal/installation of R23 LEWMAR gear case
I am about to haul boat to replace/ install new gearcase and want get boat back in the water the same day. I have the elec.motor assembly out & confirmed that the 2hex screws holding the gearcase can be removed (ie not seized).
My question is;
1. does the old prop on the bad gearcase have to be removed to get it out the old gearcase?
2.after removing the 2 hex screws securing the gear case to the mounting saddle- can tapping the top of the old gearcase with a rubber mallet, free it up so it drops into the tunnel?
3.should I be concerned about the plastic gearcase mounting saddle on top of tunnel being damaged when I remove the old gearcase? If so has anyone sourced a supplier for this part (mounting saddle #552004- I searched w/o success)?
4.with a little marine grease -can I expect the new gearcase assembly to slip in the mounting saddle?
Any input/suggestions appreciated.

 

[KKRCRACE]

I have had mine out several times and also had to replace the gear case because the assembly plug fell out. You need two people to do it and only takes about a half hour. If I remember correctly remove the prop take out the two screws from inside and the gear box comes out. Clean the mounting surface install the new case with the new gasket and I used 4200 on both sides of the gasket. I have not had to touch the motor mount. After I snug up the two gear box screws I find something else to do for about a half hour then I go back a tighten up the two screws again. I hope this helps.
KKRCRACE

 

[Nickc]

Thanks for your input...I really appreciate response...Hope mine goes as easily as yours....