Cutlass bearing

[alpeaks]

Not having replaced a cutlass bearing before, I am about to be educated I''m sure, but first, a few questions for anyone who might know something about them. Actually, about replacing them.
First, is it possible to remove the prop shaft, replace the bearing, and replace the shaft, without having to repack the stuffing box?
This sounds like it would be easiest, if it will work. Any other tips?
Thanks

[GordMay]

Repacking the stuffing box will (likely) be the least of your challenges.
Few glands get repacked as often as they should (every couple years), so take this opportunity to do the very minor job.
Gord

[GordMay]

A little Cutless Bearing & Stuffing Box information:

Cutless Bearing Replacement Tools, out of water or in. Strut-Pro provides damage free cutless replacement without requiring shaft removal.
Instructions from “Strut Pro”
http://www.strutpro.com/page14.html

Stuffing Box Maintenance: How do you know when to repack the stuffing box?
http://www.practical-sailor.com/newspics/ charts/886stuffingbox.pdf

Stuffing Box Maintenance: ( "BETTER BOAT")
http://www.mooremarine.com/stufbxma.htm

Servicing Your Stuffing Box by Don Casey
http://www.boatus.com/boattech/Casey/StuffingBox.htm

HTH
Gord