1. In order to mount the thrust bearing, the thrust bearing bulkhead must first be installed. It is best to locate the thrust bearing bulkhead as close to the WTC as possible.

IMPORTANT: At least 2 inches must be left between the bulkhead and the end of the WTC drive shaft to allow room for the UC-2 universal coupling set-up and prop shaft wheel collar retainer.

Once the proper thrust bearing bulkhead location is determined, mark the hull. Measure the maximum lower hull inner width at the bulkhead mark. Divide the hull width by two. The sum is the template radius.

2. With a ruler, draw a straight line on a piece of card stock. This will represent the horizontal centerline of the hull cross section. Set a drafting compass to the template radius and draw a template for the hull cross section using the centerline. Draw a parallel line 1/2 above the horizontal centerline. This line represents the top of the bulkhead. Cut the template out.

4. Test fit the bulkhead in the hull. Sand and file down high spots until you achieve a good, close fit. Make sure the edges just meet the hull and are not wedged in. Sand the interior of the hull underneath the bulkhead to roughen it up.

NOTE: Double check the fit of the upper and lower hull with the bulkhead in place before proceeding.

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Why An Extra Bulkhead?

Even with a perfectly aligned shaft, an unsupported drive train can vibrate excessively. If transferred directly to the hull, this vibration can cause significant structural damage.

By installing a bulkhead mounted thrust bearing, your drive train is strengthened significantly and the hull should suffer no ill effects from continued operation.