Shaft Removal 2001 SAN Python

[SuperAirIan]

I am in the process of reconditioning my PSS factory installed on a 2001 SAN with 8.2L Python. I have no service manual so I've depended on learning what I need to know from good forum-folk...like you.

I have what I think is a Walter Clamp Fit Shaft Coupling on my 1-1/8" shaft. It resembles the attached picture in style and colour...except I have 8 bolts to the Walter V-Drive instead of the 4 pictured.

In order to take the shaft out I would dearly love to leave the 8 flange bolts attached to the Drive. I would like to just loosen the 2 "pillow-block" type bolts, backoff the set bolt and spread the split-gap a little to remove the shaft and key.

Upon re-installation of a straightness tested shaft I would just do the regular engine-mount-realignment...if needed.

Am I on the right track here? Thanks, Ian

https://goo.gl/images/E8RNak

[t.franscioni]

I think it would be easier to just remove the 8 flange bolts, pull the gas tank, pull the Vdrive then just slide the shaft out though the hull. This couplers are pressed onto the shaft and despite loosening the pillow blocks and set screw its still going to take quite a bit of force to seperate and put back together that flange on the shaft and with very little room to work in there with the Vdrive intact. Might be able to get it off if you have room to get a bearing puller under there but getting it on under there without use of a press might be very difficult. Iv heard they require hydraulic assist and heat to remove and replace never done it myself though.

[74corvette]

I have a 2001 SAN and switched mine to the dripless PSS packing. I just cut the shaft and put in a new I think it is Arc shaft. I would also change the cutlass bearing at the same time while you have the shaft out. Let me know if you need any other assistance.

[74corvette]

It is a ARE shaft I got from skidim.com. I wouldn't mess with trying to get the shaft out of the flange, and also would definitely change to dripless packing.