When to change sail drive prop shaft bearings

[Ostinato]

I have two ZF SD10 sail drives with 3 blade folding props and about 1900 hours on them. I am having no problems at this time. I am about to change the seals for the shafts but was advised to change the bearings too. Any thoughts on whether and/or when to this?

[DougR]

I am unable to speak to the ZF SD10 bearings, but on the Volvo Penta saildrives the prop shaft bearings very seldom give problems. About the only thing that ever causes problems is if they are allowed to sit in saltwater and become pitted.

I suggest examining the races and rollers and reusing them if they look good.

DougR

[Acushla]

Bearings in sail drives don't come anywhere near their design life longevity or loadings. The only reason to change them is if you have reason to believe that you have had leakage of water into the gear case.

Acushla