Estimate to Replace Albin 28 Cutless Bearing

[cljbusinfo@aol.com]

I would like to get an idea on the potential maintenance hours required to replace the original cutlass bearing on my 1995 Albin 28.

I know that the rudder post would need to be removed, the collar on the rear of the keel would need to be removed, and the shaft would need to be removed in order to effect this repair.

I would like an estimate for the range of what this cost might be (if easy - or if hard) in order to better evaluate the estimates/costs from a boatyard that I would like to perform the work here in the FL Panhandle.

Any other guidance on what to watch for on this repair would be greatly appreciated. It is part of my ongoing education in the field of Albin 28 maintenance.

Thanks for your help. Craig J

[special k]

relatively easy DIY project. no need to remove shaft or rudder. pull prop, unbolt housing and slide off shaft. have bearing pressed at machine shop drill water ports.

do a search here for pictures helped me greatly

[cljbusinfo@aol.com]

Special K,

Thanks for the feedback. Sounds pretty straightforward. Craig J

[Jeremyvmd]

I just did mine and it was pretty easy. I cheated and used a floor jack to start the new bearing then a log splitter with a 1"thick starboard spacer to protect the bearing and a 2x6 with a hole in it to protect the back of the housing...went really quick. I did have to pay the shop to remove the prop as my back wouldn't allow me to swing the sledge...took them 15 minutes to get that off and took me another 20 to get the housing off.

[cljbusinfo@aol.com]

Jeremy,

Thanks for the feedback - sounds like "cheating" is authorized in this case.

I also think I will have strong yard dudes remove the prop - and any other really stubborn attachment.

[Jeremyvmd]

The worst part of the whole project is getting the old bearing out. The rest went pretty easy.