J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Propellor problem

I have a Martec prop on my J-30 (hull # 195). When I hauled it out I noticed that one of the cotter pins that hold the shaft that the blades pivot on was missing. This caused the forks of the propellor housing to spread apart. I used a "C" clamp to push it back together. I now have a crack across the forward part of this assembly. Has any one had a similar probleb -if so how did they repair it? Can it be welded. Also how do you get the propellor off? Is it threaded on or what?

I think the bronze can be welded. Try talking with Martec. Their web address is: http://www.martec-props.com

It's been a while since I took mine off. So my memory may not be perfect.
There's a picture of the pieces at http://www.martec-props.com/install_eliptec.htm

First, remove the aft cotter pin that goes through the hub and locks the nut. Once that's out, you should be able to easily remove the nut with a socket wrench.

The real trick is removing the hub from the shaft. Perhaps a prop puller can do it. The guy in the yard managed to knock it loose by striking the forward end of the hub.

The shaft that the blades pivot on is the monel pin and I'm assuming you craked the hub right at the hole where the cotter pin goes. I have a 1981, #311 and I had/have the same problem. I talked to the folks at Martec and they do not re-weld the hub at this location and you will need to replace it. You have two options; Martec will sell you a new hub and "fit" it to your old blades including new monel pin, balancing etc. for about $320-$350 (about half their listed price for a complete new prop) or you can buy a new one from either Defender or Pyacht. I just ordered a complete new prop from Defender for $455 and a new Martec zinc for $11. Hope this helps!

Steve Sullivan
Temptation, #311

An afterthought... I found that by removing the prop shaft, the prop was easily removed by placing a small section of 1" pipe over the shaft and gently tapping the back side of the prop hub, assuming that you have already removed the cotter pins and sshaft nut of course.

Steve Sullivan
Temptation #311