prop shaft removal

[ppenoyar]

I have a new to me 1978 Catalina 27. Came with a transom bracket and 8 hp johnson outboard. The original inboard atomic 4 died long ago. I was never going to repair or replace this so I removed it. The only thing left is the prop shaft. Since this is bsolete now, I want to remove this while I have her out of the water to bottom paint. The prop is well stuck on the shaft. I was thinking of cutting the prop off the shaft. If I did this would I be able to pull the shaft from the inside of the hull? Any ideas on getting the prop shaft off in the easiest manner keeping in mind I have no deed for this?

[jrd22]

Sawzall. Just keep cutting pieces off the shaft if it won't go past the rudder.

[luck66]

The shaft may be pulled off the boat from the outside. Thats how I replaced my shaft, I used a diver and when he pulled the shaft out I put a plug in the hole where the shaft was. I replaced the shaft. It mighr br a real job to cut the stainless steel shagt.