separating the prop shaft from the engine while in the water

[AJA]

I'm in the process of removing my old Volvo Penta MD204 to replace it with a new Beta 30. I'm ready to hoist the old beast off her mounts, but I'm concerned that when I separate the shaft from the transmission, I will be altering the support of the shaft thru the stuffing box and thus instigate a leak.
Am I correct, or just a worry wart?
Thanks for any advice you can give!
John B

[TheOffice]

wouldn't worry about it. You are only moving the shaft a small amount and it is supported by the stuffing box and cutlass, so the angle won't change.

[jt11791]

Don't worry. Worst case the stuffing box drips a little. After the motor is out you can support the shaft with a block of wood, or something, if the drip bothers you.

[AJA]

Thanks; That's what I was hoping to hear....!

[jamhass]

IF it leaks too much, dive the boat and push toilet seal rings (bee's wax) into the shaft log from below. This will stop/slow the leak, it's easy to remove and if bits are left behind, no worries.

[Seaturtle44]

Support the shaft with a chain from above, or a block of wood below.

[adjo]

Originally Posted by Seaturtle44

Support the shaft with a chain from above, or a block of wood below.

Why a chain?

[NorthCoastJoe]

I did this on my Pearson 30 when I put in my Yanmar. No problems the distance from the packing to the coupler was very short no support needed. So unless you have a long shaft to support you should be fine. Mine never leaked and I pushed and pulled on it when I installed the new engine.