Hi Bud,

I just removed the stern tube from Rhapsody today and there is what appears to be a 1/2" or so fiberglass spacer between the stern tube and the hull. It is cracked in two places that, in addition to 40 year old caulking, is probably the source of my leak around the stern tube. The service manual doesn't address a spacer of any kind so I wonder if you had any insight. The prop shaft is shot and needs to be replaced as well. I mount a zinc between the shaft log and prop hub which has to be cut down about 1/2 inch for proper water flow to the cutlass bearing. If I dispense with the spacer, cutting the zinc would no longer be necessary. Your valued input is humbly requested.

Thanks,

Werner

Hi Dick,

Tried to post a pic from my Mac but gave up. Even following Jack Webb's instructions didn't work and I'm pretty savvy on this computer stuff. I'll post it on the Facebook Westsail page. 

The fiberglass spacer is the same shape as the mounting plate on the shaft log and was mounted between the hull and the bronze shaft log. I looked at your blog when you were doing this and did not see a spacer in your photos. I assume yours was re mounted directly to the hull with plenty of sealant.

Thanks,

Werner