Prop shaft rotation

Discussions about Cape Dory, Intrepid and Robinhood sailboats and how we use them. Got questions? Have answers? Provide them here.

Moderator: Jim Walsh

Post Reply
appletim1
Posts: 85
Joined: Apr 18th, '15, 20:23

Prop shaft rotation

Post by appletim1 »

I have a CD 27 with a YSM8 engine. While underway at over 4 knots, the prop shaft audibly rotates and to stop the noise, I move the gear shifter into forward.

Have others experienced this? Is this noise indicative of issues in the stuffing box? Does holding the prop in gear do any damage?
Jim Walsh
Posts: 3364
Joined: Dec 18th, '07, 13:04
Location: CD31 "ORION" Hull #27 Noank, Ct.

Re: Prop shaft rotation

Post by Jim Walsh »

The owners manual should say what is preferred. I have a different engine and transmission than you and my owners manual states to let it freewheel or place it in reverse.
Unless your stuffing box is leaking more than a couple drops a minute you have no issues.
Jim Walsh

Ex Vice Commodore
Ex Captain-Northeast Fleet

CD31 ORION

The currency of life is not money, it's time
Walter Hobbs
Posts: 202
Joined: Sep 22nd, '14, 08:34
Location: CD 14,CD 27

Re: Prop shaft rotation

Post by Walter Hobbs »

Same boat, same engine, same problem. I shift it into forward like you. Only my first season with this boat but I cant see how it could do any harm.
Do you have a tach?
Walter R Hobbs
CD 14 hull # 535, Grin
CD 27 Hull # 35 Horizon Song
Lincoln, RI

"Attitude is the differance between ordeal and adventure."
Post Reply