High pitch whistle from cutlass?

[foursailing]

There's a noticeable high pitch "whistle" like sound when I'm running at low rpm.  I'm thinking that it's originating from the cutlass which I replaced last year (probably only has about 30 hrs or so on it).

Anyone have a similar experience?

Thanks!

Bill

[Ray & Sandy Erps]

Have you recently had your propellor redone?  Our propellor made a ringing noise for awhile after being tuned up at the shop.  It's been discussed previously.

[Jon Schneider]

I'm not sure without a dog's ears that you could hear a sound being made by the cutlass bearing.  I think it's more likely that your engine/shaft/coupler is out of alignment or you have a tranny problem.  But you really need to diagnose where the sound is coming from.  Get a couple of feet of 3/8" or smaller water hose, and use it as a poor man's stethoscope to try to pinpoint the origin of the sound.  It could even be belt misalignment or a belt that's loose or too tight.  Could also be the alternator or the water pump.  Glad I could help narrow it down for you

[RV61]

Bill,
Do you have a PSS dripless shaft seal system . If so the whistle could be that it needs to be burped. Simply pull back round disk until some water comes out and release. May also need to wipe off shaft in this area. 

[Ron Hill]

Bill : I've heard marina owner complain that some cutless new bearings squeal!  Don't know if that's a cop out or for real. 
You might also want to make sure that your edges of your prop blades are squared off and not sharp. 
A thought. 

[foursailing]

Thanks for all the responses!

Haven't had any prop work done  - other than a small drop when I was painting this spring : (

Rick - I did install a PSS last year - it's the new type with the vent hose, so I don't think it needs a burp but its worth a shot.  I will also clean the surfaces.

Jon - Like the idea of the water hose - it was definetly hard to pinpoint - but if I had to bet I would say its coming from the cutlass (per Ron's suggestion) or the PSS.

Thanks again,

Bill

[Jon Schneider]

I can't take credit for the tubal stethoscope.  I got it from the Tom & Ray, better known as Frick & Frack, the Car Talk brothers.

[RV61]

Bill,
The PSS manual in the trouble shooting section states the following:

High Pitch Squell
If you hear a high pitch squeel from the PSS Shaft Seal during operation the cause may be the seal is not getting water. Review and correct plumbing.
Caution if Seal has run dry the Rotor may be hot.

Also see how to clean.  www.shaftseal.com

[foursailing]

Thanks!

Rick - I will check it out the PSS tomorrow and let you know how I make out.

Jon - After giving it some additional thought, I pretty sure it's either coming from the cutlass, PSS or transmission (hopefully not), since I only hear the noise when I am in gear moving forward at only the slowest speed.

[Ron Hill]

I believe that the "Tappet Brothers" from Car Talk are called Click and Clack! 

[Jon Schneider]

I believe that the "Tappet Brothers" from Car Talk are called Click and Clack! 

LOL!  You're right, Ron.  I was having a poetic moment (otherwise known as "senior")