Transmission Upgrade

"OLD AND IN THE WAY"
Hurth HBW-50 makes way for new ZF-10

We hadn't planned to haul our boat until the end of the season this year, but our Hurth HBW-50 transmission became increasingly dodgy - slipping while in forward gear, to the point where the only reasonable voyage we could make was to the boatyard.

Luckily, Astoria now has a boatyard with a new travel lift right next to our marina.

On May 25, we hauled the boat having ordered a new ZF-10M transmission (thanks to Miki at MMI of Seattle for the great service). This new transmission is rated for higher horsepower than our engine develops and will hopefully provide us greater reliability.

In addition, we replaced the engine mounts and added a flexible coupling between the transmission output and prop shaft, all in an effort to reduce vibration and prevent the transmission suffering an early demise. We obtained these parts from PYI in Seattle, who were very helpful.

Installation was straightforward and notable for the conspicuous absence of seized bolts and busted knuckles. We did have to cut the prop shaft back about two inches to accommodate the longer transmission and the flexible coupling. A right-angle grinder and a steady hand were all that was required.

Bottom paint and fresh zincs, and we were good to go.

The boatyard staff were very accommodating and skilled. Thanks, guys.