Malibu Boats 21 vRide, Owner'S Manual

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4-8
Rudder Stuffing Box
The rudder stuffing box has a grease nipple and should be checked and lubricated
annually. The rudder stuffing box is accessed through the rear center access panel directly
below the fuel tank on direct drive models, and below the engine on V-drive models. Use
only a marine grade, waterproof grease.
Shaft Packing
Located in the bilge, under the rear center access panel, is the shaft packing. The shaft
packing is a seal where the prop shaft goes through the hull of the boat. This seal should
be checked and tightened periodically. Please note that it is normal for a small amount of
leakage to occur from this seal. It should leak at the rate of about one drop every 10
seconds.
Prop Shaft/Engine Alignment
As per Indmar’s recommended routine service maintenance, it is necessary to regularly
evaluate the prop shaft coupler bolts that attach the prop shaft to the engine. See Indmar
Owner’s Manual for proper prop shaft alignment. If the prop shaft bolts loosen
prematurely, major damage to your boat structure and driveline could result. It is
recommended that only a trained service technician perform this maintenance due to the
complications that can arise from an improperly balanced prop shaft engine alignment.
Damaged caused from loosened coupler bolts and improper
engine alignment is not covered under your Malibu Boats
warranty, and should be part of the owner’s service
responsibilities to ensure system is correct. See Malibu Boats
and Indmar Owner’s Manuals for appropriate timelines for
evaluation or checkup.
Optional Drip Less Shaft Packing
The optional drip less shaft packing provides drip-free use of
your prop shaft coupling and will require minimal
maintenance to keep the system trouble-free. Grease fitting
annually, and ensure water flow tube is free from obstruction.
The system uses lake water from the engine to assist in
cooling. If the cooling hose is removed, water can enter the
bilge area of the boat while the engine is running.
Figure 4-7. Drip Less Shaft
Packing
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