VP280 propshaft seal replace...question

[Scaaty]

Well, after 30 years seems the old workhorse 280 is picking up water after 10 weeks wet in the slip. Ordered the shaft/carrier seals and orings, and all new plug/s rings/gaskets. Did the bellows 2 years ago, so I will leave the upper alone. All I have is a Clymer Man, but have dug into enough lowers to know what I'm doing.
Looks pretty straight forward, carrier housing bolts came loose no problem (WHEW!), and will dig out my slide hammer soon as the parts get here.
Question is, when I yank it, are there any little gremlins that will want to jump out and bite me? Figure just neutral, yank, then do what I gotta do..
Any suggestions are appreaciated...

 

[Don S]

Re: VP280 propshaft seal replace...question

Nothing wierd is going to happen. Worst part is trying to start all those little nuts that hold the bearing in the carrier. They won't come clear off or go all the way on in one step. Have to put them on a few threads and move to the next. Same when you tighten them all they way down. It's obvious.

Have you actually done a pressure check and know for sure that is what's leaking? I find the shift mechanism lip seal leaks more often than the propshaft seals on the single prop drives.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: VP280 propshaft seal replace...question

Yep on the few threads at a time, and have skimmed down wrenches (milled down)...I'll do what I mentioned, do a low PSI test and soap it up.,,but...
Are you talking the shift shaft seal under the "280" cover...simple to reverse the F/R)? (yep, single prop..)
I have always pretty well stuffed the innards there well with white grease..always has looked pretty healthy, but I will look into it when I get the rest installed...great advice..actually forgot about that way for water intrusion!...
Thanks..that should cover it...(darn good O/D...!!)

 

[Scaaty]

Re: VP280 propshaft seal replace...question

Well, went out today and had a good look at the OD. I could kick myself in the head for TOTALLY missing what is probably the reason for water intrusion. I can see now where that shift seal/eccentric is one place where it would not get much attention or flushed (salt) as the cover has it out of sight, out of mind. Just a little too easy to corrode up and trash the seal over time.
Not for long...parts kit ordered, Crocus out...
Thanks Don..