Cruising Sailors Forum Archive

Reached my limit with gear puller...need help

For the first time since re-powering four years ago, I need to remove the 15 x 15 3-fixed-blade propeller from the shaft. I have now tried every trick in my book to get it off, and haven't moved it at all. My trustworthy mechanic says that he "lapped" it on, which he explained means that he coated the shaft with some substance as he slid the prop on. He assured me that with a proper gear-puller, and perhaps some heat to the hub of the prop, I should be able to get it off. I have tried the gear puller, applying as much force as I can muster with a 22" crescent wrench, and I have cooked the bronze prop with a propane torch for about 10 minutes, several times. I have also tried multiple applications of PB Blaster, light tapping on the hub with a hammer, and hitting hard on the end of the threaded rod of the gear puller after tightening it in place (the mechanic's suggestion). Before asking the mechanic to make a house call (the boat is at my home), I thought I would probe the wisdom of this Board for any ideas that I haven't thought of. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

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