Removing Prop - Catalina 270

[Trescool]

I wanted to remove the prop and clean the layers of paint off it since the boat is out of the water now. I took the cotter pin out and see threads covered in paint. I'm assuming that I clamp the shaft and then turn the prop to get if off? What direction do I turn it to remove it?

Thanks!

[ianhlnd]

Not sure about the 270's but my 30 had a nut holding the prop onto a key way. Are you saying that your prop is threaded? If that's the case, it would be counter to shaft rotation I would think.

If in question, call Catalina Yachts, used to be your call would be directed to Butler, but he's probably not around anymore. They have good cust svc and an 800 number.

[Fstbttms]

The prop is NOT threaded onto the shaft. The threads you see are for the prop nuts only. The prop slides onto the shaft, over the threaded end, and is held in place by a key that sits in a keyway cut into the shaft (with a reciprocal keyway cut into the prop hub.) To remove the prop, follow these steps:

1.- Remove cotter pin from shaft end
2.- Immobilize prop and remove prop nuts (a length of 2X2 run between the strut and rudder works well for this)
3.- Thread one nut back onto the end of the shaft (this will keep the prop from flying off the end of the shaft when it pops free)
4.- Attach a prop puller (or gear puller, if a prop puller is not available) to the prop and shaft
5.- Tighten the puller very tight (but do not overtighten)
6.- Bang on the puller with a large hammer at the after end to vibrate the prop loose
7.- If the prop does not come loose immediately, re-attach the puller in a new position and repeat step 6. Repeat as necessary
8.- Once the prop is off, be sure to retrieve the key. It may be in the keyway on the shaft or stuck inside the prop hub
9.- The prop WILL come off. The rule of thumb is Pressure, Persistence and Patience

Good luck.