cutlass bearing

[agoodman]

I have a 35ft MKII C&C and noticed that the cutlas bearing is not flush with the strut. It extends about a 1/4 of inch out the back. Are there any set screws that I need to lossen or can I just try and tap it into place?

Al Goodman
Skylark

[triradial]

You should find one or two set screws under the paint of the strut. (look for a dimple, and you may be able to carefully open it up without doing too much damage)
Once loosened, you MAY be able to tap the bearing into place, however you will probably damage it since it's a fairly thin wall. My experience is it's tough getting a cutless bearing out even with the shaft removed (requires hack-sawing and vise grips), so my suggestion is to leave it in place if the shaft isn't wobbly. Sticking out 1/4" is doing no harm. If it really bothers you, cut the excess off with a hack saw.