Strut Bearings

Water-lubricated brass-shelled rubber bearings. A good strut bearing reduces friction, dampens slight vibrations and misalignment, and flushes contaminants through the bearing to avoid abrasion that will mar the shaft surface. These functions are accomplished by having the bearing slightly oversized on the inside diameter, so that a thin film of water rides between the rubber surface and the stainless shaft. The grooved contour of the rubber surface is critical to the flow and
circulation of water around the shaft.
A bearing worn by normal usage should be replaced during service to
maintain that high level of mechanical performance. Poor water lubrication
in the bearing (usually caused by shaft misalignment or too tight a fit with
the shaft) manifests itself in excessive bearing wear, transmission of shaft
whip throughout the boat, and marring of the shaft surface.
When installing the strut bearing, it is important to have a light press
fit between it and the bored casting, and to secure it mechanically with
cup point stainless steel set screws. Be sure, however, not to collapse the
bearing shell when installing the set screws, as it may then bind against
the shaft.

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