Drive Coupling

[Rustic Charm]

Hi all, I have a Volvo Penta 2003T, in a 36 foot steel ketch.

My question is, the gearbox goes strait on to the prop shaft connected with a steal coupling. Because its direct I have to ensure the engine mounts are all lined up as well as possible to ensure the prop shaft is not on any angle which creates vibrations.

When I was a fitter and turner, many years ago, there were rubber couplings on conveyor belts that dealt with vibrations. Does anyone know if there are alternatives for couplings that take out the need for such close accuracy?

Ted

[BriaF]

I have been thinking about some type of rubber coupling,
Have not got any further but am interested in knowing more ?

To answer your question.
There are a number of alternatives

1/ CV. Joints

2/. Uni joints single & double.

3/ synthetic (flexible) coupling goes between the
gearbox & the drive shaft. Main purpose
being vibration reduction
also electrical isolation of shaft
slightly reduces the criticality of engine alignment.

4/ Manufactured solutions
python drive
Try also vetus
Start googling it. NOT CHEAP possibly as much as . $3000 + & more

All have there pros & cons
I have no experience of any
Except the flexible coupling !
Engine alignment is still an issue for me

To truly disconnect engine alignment from shaft alignment,you need to
Have a double CV or uni joint.
This can also have issues unless set it up correctly
The only other alternative I can think of is to use HYDRAULIC or electrical drive.

Good luck

[Rick01541]

R&D Marine Flexible Shaft Coupling.

WWW.PYIINC.COM

I think this is what you're looking for.

[Tellie]

Try to give these guys a shout. I think they are connected to Australia as well.

https://www.tidesmarine.com/

[stillbuilding]

Originally Posted by tedsherrin

Hi all, I have a Volvo Penta 2003T, in a 36 foot steel ketch. My question is, the gearbox goes strait on to the prop shaft connected with a steal coupling. Because its direct I have to ensure the engine mounts are all lined up as well as possible to ensure the prop shaft is not on any angle which creates vibrations. When I was a fitter and turner, many years ago, there were rubber couplings on conveyor belts that dealt with vibrations. Does anyone know if there are alternatives for couplings that take out the need for such close accuracy? Ted

The flexible couplings still need precise alignment but do reduce vibration.
I have an Aquadrive which is more forgiving of misalignment but much more expensive. They have an agent in NZ but not in Aus. Nice unit though.

[Tynesider]

Hi Ted

Not sure if it helps but R & D is a British company here R and D MARINE : Flexible Shaft Couplings

They are very helpfull both on the phone and e-mail and I have purchased both fexible couplings and dampner drive plates from them, 'they are the manufacturer' not the distributers
Good luck

[bizzy]

Poly flex have a great range in NZ and autrailia

[Pete7]

Seems a lot of work, is there anything wrong with the engine at the moment? Our 2003 shakes a little until it's warmed up, but considering it is a 3 cylinder engine it's not too bad until you exceed 2600 revs when it sounds a little harsh. Now 25 years old I try to run it hard but not thrash it.

For the cost of installing a flexible drive or a even an aqua drive to take the thrust it might be easier to just replace the engine mounts and check the alinement more often.

Pete