shaft couplings

Stormer · #1 (**permalink**) 05-09-2005

I recently separate the shaft coupling on my Bristol 29''9 in order to install a dripless shaft seal.

The faces of the coupling have some minor rust. I have carefully removed most of the rust with a dremmel tool, taking care not to etch the face of the coupling.

Several people have told me to replace the coupling all together. However, it doesn''t seem to be that bad.

Can anyone advise me how to determine whether a new coupling is in order?

Thanks in advance.

Matt

Billpjr · #2 (**permalink**) 05-10-2005

Use the coupling and don''t worry about it. Heavy rust is frequently seen on old boat couplings and they work fine. Just clean them up and paint. They have to be pitted REALLY bad to lose alignment or strength.

TomS · #3 (**permalink**) 05-10-2005

A general rule is that rust is ten times thicker than the metal that produced it. In other words, .001 inches of metal rusting will produce a layer of rust .010 inches.

Wire brush, paint with Rustolium, align your engine, and bolt it up.

If you are really concerned about it, pull the shaft and take it and the coupling to a machine shop and have it refaced.