Cracked (Prop Shaft) Strut

[Rees]

During a recent haul out, while attempting to replace my cutlass bearing, it was discovered that the strut has a hairline crack parallel to the prop shaft immediately above where the shaft passes through the strut. The mechanic spoke with Catalina and learned that these struts are no longer available for the 1989.  They did not replace the cutlass bearing. I was informed that when this strut fails it will be the end of my boat unless I can find a used strut.  Is there anyone else who has faced this issue?  Come up with any other solution (In the mean time I'll be spending some time at the scrapyard)?