Universal M-18 engine with Hurth transmission

[samgoucher]

Cape Dory 30 Cutter with Universal M-18 engine and Hurth transmission. Does anyone have this combination and if so, are there any tips on easily checking the transmission fluid? The dipstick can be reached from the front, but not seen. Thinking I'm going to have to access from the port lazerette. Are there any tips on how NOT to lose the dipstick into the bilge other than don't fat finger it or put your hat under to catch it? Just thinking someone has a better way.

Sam Goucher
S/V To The Moon
CD30C

[Steve Laume]

A couple of things I did help a little. Toss something soft on top of the engine before you cram yourself over the top of the thing. Fewer engine part chest imprints that way. Make sure you have the right sized wrench before you go in. I have the proper size written in sharpie marker, inside the engine compartment. Add a dome light under the bridge deck or somewhere in the engine compartment so you can see a bit better. It also helps to open the cockpit lockers and remove the side panels to get a little more air and light back there. The thing that helped the most was removing my heat exchanger from the original bracket and mounting it further out of the way. This also helped to gain access to the zinc in the exchanger. I keep a little trans fluid in a small catsup type bottle so I can top it off without a funnel or mess.

It is never going to be easy but it can be easier, Steve.

[samgoucher]

Thanks Steve. Good info. May just hire someone with a smaller stature than myself.

[samgoucher]

Steve, I'm told you have pinrails installed on Raven. Could I trouble you for a couple of good, closeup pictures. To The Moon will be getting a set.

Thanks,
Sam Goucher

[John M]

I am fairly large and with a thin pad on top of engine I can see and remove trans dip stick.
A few helpful hints:
1: the level is to be taken with the dipstick "not" screwed in.
2: If ATF is used it is difficult to see fluid level, Draw a line vertically on dipstick with white chalk, the fluid level can easily be seen