1/4" to 3/16" strut conversion

[BHChieftain]

Hi,
I have an existing 1/4" strut that I'm trying to convert to allow use with a 3/16" prop shaft. Is there a bearing that has a 1/4" OD and a 3/16" ID?

I tried a standard speedmaster 3/16" strut but the OD is too small...

Chief

[JimClark]

Octura makes a lead teflon bearing in that size Steve list's them

[RayR]

Just buy a 1/4" shaft with a prop shaft step down to 3/16" prop. Sold all over the web, including this site. But usually out of stock here.

http://www.offshoreelectrics.com/pro...od=hug-b8666sp

We don't call it "Out Of Stock Electrics" for nothing.

[BHChieftain]

I have a "non-standard" config on this boat where the shaft and flexdrive is 1/4", but my motor shaft is 5mm, and I can't readily find a 5mm to 1/4" coupler (they are typically 6mm to 1/4).

So I want to run a "standard" 3/16 shaft and flexcable, and use that with a 5mm to 3/16 flexdrive flexhex coupler... provided there is a bushing that will step down the strut from 1/4 to 3/16...

Other solution is to use the 1/4 shaft and cable (turned down to 3/16), but need to find a coupler that will work with a 5mm shaft.

Chief

[ray schrauwen]

Well what size is the strut? If it was designed for a 1/4" stub and you want to run a 3/16" cable, you might actually have 3/8" ID to deal with...
If so, you can find bearings 3/8" to 3/16" for your strut.

If not, just shim down with K&S tubing and use a Speedmaster type brass sleeve bearing.

[BHChieftain]

Well what size is the strut? If it was designed for a 1/4" stub and you want to run a 3/16" cable, you might actually have 3/8" ID to deal with...
If so, you can find bearings 3/8" to 3/16" for your strut.

If not, just shim down with K&S tubing and use a Speedmaster type brass sleeve bearing.

Hi,
The current strut is 1/4 inner diameter, but it does not appear to have a bushing in it. I like the idea of using K&S tubing to shim it... I have a new speedmaster 3/16 bearing, but the OD is too small for the 1/4 strut.

Thanks!
Chief

[Boaterguy]

http://www.offshoreelectrics.com/pro...at=Flex+Cables
get the 7/32 and 3/16 tubes, slide one inside the other, and slide that into your existing 1/4 strut. You will have to cross drill them, and possibly solder them to reduce all of those shafts sliding around.

[BHChieftain]

Thanks! I'll give that a go,

Chief

[BHChieftain]

Octura makes a lead teflon bearing in that size Steve list's them

Thanks-- I'll try those as well

Chief

[785boats]

I'd be going to a local bearing supply shop & getting a couple of stainless steel ball race bearings to put in the strut. I did one a couple of years ago & it's still running without any play in it.
Cheers.
Paul.

[BHChieftain]

Found some 1/4 OD brass tubing at the hobby store and checked if it would fit. It is actually too big, so the strut must be metric-- it is 5.9mm according to the caliper which I think is an odd size...

Is there a teflon tubing size that might fit this?

Last resort will be to replace the strut.

Chief

[BHChieftain]

Ok, closer inspection of this strut reveals that there is some sort of inner sleeve that is just under 1/2 inch long inserted into the aft end of the strut. If I can figure out how to remove it, then I will be able to slide in a new 1/4" stuffing tube into the shaft and I'd be set.

I could either have it drilled out if I can find a machine shop, or I could try heat-- how long would I need to put the strut in the oven before trying to tap out that inner ring (I can get a long allen wrench down the other side to catch the lip)

Or instead of the oven, should I use my 140W solder gun to heat up the end?

Chief