strut bushings

[lilfoo2225]

has anyone replaced the strut arm bushings for the prop shaft? ive read that these should be replaced at around 300 hrs. almost 500 on the factory ones. ive noticed more vibration this year. ive found a tool to remove these without removing the strut arm and its 130$'s not including the 60$'s a piece for bushings. not looking to pay that much for a tool that might only get used once. any input would be great.

[sailtl]

I replaced mine but I replaced the whole strut because I hit a log. I had no issues withe the bearing before that and I had 800 hours on the boat. I would check the the drive shaft at the trans and make sure the bolts are tight and check the prop real close. It does not take much for the prop to set up a vibration.

[lilfoo2225]

all that is fine. but i can move the prop shaft around a lil.  not real sure how much play is supposed to be in there u know. i know it dont take much movement for a vibration. the prop is good but i know the stock three blade is good for some cavitation with some vibration.

[Capt Rick]

I would suggest replacing the strut :
Driect drive MSP0010172 Strut,PropellerShaft,For1"Shaft,w/BearingBronze 17  19  154.22  $125.00  $30.00           
vdrive model MSP0011189 Strut,PropellerShaft,For1-1/8"Shaft,Bronze 17  20  156.89  $125.00  $35.00

Remove the prop, remove the 6 lag bolts and replace with silicone to reseal  and check alignment.