Underwater Equipment (Inboards); Shaft Log; Strut - Four winns 378 VISTA Owner's Manual

under water. The V-drive system has the engine mounted
in the extreme stern of the boat with the output shaft
facing forward. A transmission which performs shifting
functions is mounted directly onto the engine. A V-drive
reduction gearbox is mounted directly to the transmis-
sion. The prop shaft is then connected to the V-drive
output coupling. See Figure E1.
Figure E1: V-drive
NOTICE
Always return the engine throttle lever to the ex-
treme low speed position before shifting. NEVER
shift the unit while engine speed is above
800 rpm.
E - 4

UNDERWATER EQUIPMENT (Inboards)

Avoid running aground or striking a (submerged)
object. Serious damage to the engine(s) or in-
board underwater gear can result and the boat
can take on water. In the event of such an occur-
rence, proceed at low speed to the nearest ser-
vice facility and have an immediate inspection
made of the prop shafts and struts before further
use of the craft. Keep all life saving devices at
hand while driving to a dock area. If the boat
cannot be immediately removed from the water,
thoroughly inspect the bilge area for leaks so
that the boat does not sink while moored.
A. Shaft Log
The shaft log allows the propeller shaft to extend and
rotate through the hull with only limited water leakage
occurring. Minor dripping may occur and is not abnormal
during operation. See Figure E1 & E2.
378 Vista™ Owner's Manual
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Proper performance of the shaft seal is directly depen-
dent upon correct propeller shaft alignment. Propeller
damage, a bent strut or shaft, or abnormal wear, settling,
etc., are common reasons for misalignment. Therefore,
periodically have the shaft alignment checked and have
adjustments made when necessary.
To prevent personal injury, keep away from the
propulsion machinery during its operation or
whenever the boat is in motion. Movement of
water past a propeller can cause the propeller,
propeller shaft, and other propulsion machinery
to rotate even if that equipment is not being
operated intentionally.
Prop Shaft

Strut

Propeller Shaft
Assembly
Figure E2: Underwater Equipment
To prevent water from entering into the boat, al-
ways be sure the lock nuts are tightened se-
curely to prevent the packing nuts from loosen-
ing. DO NOT attempt to tighten the lock nuts
without the proper equipment to hold the pac-
king nut stationary.
B. Strut
The strut secures the lower end of the propeller shaft.
Seasonal inspection of each strut should be made to in-
sure no damage has incurred and the strut bearing is not
worn excessively.
When the boat is removed from the water for winteriza-
tion or general maintenance, apply a light water proof
grease to the strut bearing (rubber sleeve in the strut) and
the shaft where it penetrates the strut bearing. This will
keep the strut bearing from drying out. Replace the strut
bearing should it become worn or cracked.
Log Shaft

Shaft Log

Seal Assy.
Zinc Anode
Section E
Page 3