Jonathan,
This is a very common issue with the long keel boats that have the
propeller in an appature.
It is a toss up. If the heel casting unscrews, then dropping the rudder
is really pretty simple. Take all the head fitting off the rudder,
unscrew (2 as I recall) the big screws that hold on the heal casting and
down it comes.

I actual fact, if you keep track of the shims, pulling a U4 forward an
inch and an half is usually just about as hard. The problem if there is
one is the exhaust pipe. The hoses and wires will usually pull that
far, but if the muffler can't be moved with the engine (some can) then
you don't want to mess with that during the season. It may take you out
of commission for longer than it is worth.

Matt Colie
Lifelong Waterman, Licensed Mariner and Perpetual Sailor

Jonathan W wrote:
I bought an Indigo 3 bladed prop last week for my Alberg 35 with the
original Atomic 4, as the existing prop succumbed to electrolysis

I went down to the boat yesterday, worried that I might not be able to
loosen the old hub's grip on the shaft. It was also a 3 bladed prop.
That was actually easy after about 5 minutes with a map gas torch.

I seem to have only about an inch of space between the end of the prop
shaft and the rudder (post). The hub is about 2-2,5 inches thick. I've
tried swinging the rudder from stop to stop, but don't seem to be able
to find an angle that will allow the old prop to come off, or, for that
matter, a new one to go on.

Others must have encountered this problem and found a solution.....

At this juncture it seems to me that I either have to dismount the
rudder to gain an extra inch or so, or I have to unmount the engine and
pull the prop shaft forward a couple of inches (if that's even possible )

I am hoping that I missed something perfectly obvious as I was working
late and was tired.... any help appreciated.

Thanks,

Jonathan Wye