Consolidated from another thread:
We have a PSS on the boat. I've loosened the set screws tho haven't been able to move it yet. That might be a task for today. More boat yoga.
You're very right. This is a major reveal of a system and it would be foolish to waste the opportunity to maximize things. Seems to be a recurring theme, "Well, as long as we've got it open . . ."
You said you had trouble moving the PSS. Remember that there are usually 2 set screws under the initial two that you can see, for a total of four set screws to remove, before the PSS can be moved.
Frank
Frank Langer said:
for a total of four set screws to remove, before the PSS can be moved.
Also those set screws are NOT reusable. So before you put it back together you'll need to order replacements. Not sure how old your PSS is but if it's 6+ yo or more it may be time for that project too(while your in there). They sell rebuild kits with new bellows, clamps, o-rings, and set screws of course. I think I paid about $90-100 for the kit but that was a while ago...
Serendipity
84 E30+ Hull #632
Universal 5416
Lake Michigan
There are previous threads/posts about timing of replacement/longevity of PSS. The manufacturer in Seattle used to recommend replacing or rebuilding every 15 years, then shortened it to 11 years, now at about 6 years. A sailor at our marina showed me the one he removed at 15 years, and it looked like new--thick, flexible rubber! As mine was about 18 years old, and still looked perfect, I phoned the PSS tech to discuss. He said that they last a long time--he has seen good ones at 25 years, as long as they have not been immersed in oil, tranny fluid, etc. He said their lawyer had recommended a more cautious timeline recommendation. As we were planning a trip to more remote areas, where service is not available, I decided to replace ours at that time. Upon removal, the old PSS rubber and other parts were fine, and I've kept them as a spare in case I ever need a similar rubber hose (eg. temporary exhaust hose repair?). I don't regret replacing mine, even just for peace of mind, but for sure I'm not going to replace it every 6 years unless I spill lots of oil on it. However, I do recommend checking it regularly for any cracks or chafing in the rubber bellows, ensure the double hose clamps are positioned correctly and tight but not overtight (don't cut the rubber) and the set screws are tight. The old PSS needs to be "burped" of air after haul-out to avoid it overheating.
Having said all this, I'm no expert in this area, am not second guessing PSS lawyers, don't want to get any tech staff in trouble (they were very pleasant and helpful), and am only sharing my experience for your consideration.
Frank