Cutless (sleeve) Bearing advice

[darylat8750]

The standard Cutless bearing for my prop shafts came in a standard length. The main strut is 8" long for a perfect fit. The mid strut is 6" long. I've heard "Leave it at that length. No worries." And I've heard that I should cut it off flush with the back of the casting. My first inclination is to trim it off.
Opinions?

[Terra Nova]

I can't see what it would hurt, leaving it that way.

[Training Wheels]

Wouldn't cut it off flush. Always good to have some sticking out to get a hold of, to make changing it easier.


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[darylat8750]

Thanks guys . Still split decision...... I should have said almost flush. If I cut it I will leave a quarter inch or so.

It will be easy to cut today but once the shafts are in it would turn into a harder job requiring an awful lot of finesse. Shafts due back tomorrow morning. Sure would like to hear MaineSail's opinion......

[darylat8750]

I cut them off leaving about 3/8" protruding. Done.

[Training Wheels]

^^^^^ what he said.