Yanmar SD40 / SD50 Saildrive Upgrade

This video describes the reason, the cause and the solution to the notorious slipping cone clutch problem on the Yanmar SD40 and SD50 saildrives.
The SD40 and SD50 saildrives are very robust units, and upgrading the units with the kit, you extend the service life and reliability of the drives.
With the upgrade kit comes a detailed and comprehensive instruction, covering : Removal, Disassembly, Rework, Setting up, Installation and Adjustment.
There are those that are prepared to just re lap the cones regularly, however, this does not cure the origin of the problem and has limited success, sometimes slipping again after a very short service period.
The lower drive seals, as mentioned, have nothing to do with the cone clutch system, however they are an improvement to the sail drive, increasing the reliability.
Should you require more information or help, contact Gideon at [e-mail]

[@panteliszirinis8833]

Got the upgrade kit from Gideon. Gideon has been one of the most educated and helpful people I have met in the industry. Have not done many hours and after 100 hours had to adjust the nut. It did not sit right the first time. Gideon gave me a lot of help even after almost a year of buying the kit and a faulty installation on my side.
The kit is very well though and replaces all the items that were being worn fast.
The kit comes with full instructions and every single item has a label. I had to reopen my gearbox, as the bottom tapper locks did not sit right. If you are doing the upgrade make sure that they do, as if they don't they will slowly move in and destroy your spacing.

[@nahbrown]

3.5 years later and this upgrade is still performing great on both our SD50s. Thanks!

[@barrysummers1622]

Thank you Brett, great explanation.

[@EuroNeuro]

This is very good, well done. I just clicked here to check out sail drivers, but will get this kit if I end up with a 40 or 50 Yanmar SD. A boat I'm looking at with Yanmar SD has indeed issues with the cone, although it will be replaced before sale by the dealer.

[@markjennings2315]

That has to be the cleanest engine/engine bay on the planet!

[@jimanderson2518]

Great job explaining 👏 👍

[@sailingpacificstar]

Very detailed. Thanks

[@charlespalmer2407]

Very helpful thankyou

[@thomasbm1]

You need the Yanmar SD50 to SD60 conversion kit.

[@davidking1501]

wondering where you get the upgrade kit from

[@arthurfoulkesaycke5704]

Howzit Brett. Where did you buy the kit and how much did it cost. Dankie, boet

[@hugman6]

Great advice/video but when on earth can you buy one

[@tcurdt]

Useful - but would have been so much better if it was filmed in landscape.

[@marcellobernabucci7970]

the video is useful but I have a comment about the oil seals. You suggest replacing the originals that have a single lip with others that have the double lip, ok for the double lip but I would suggest to always use those in Viton (FPM, brown color) and not in NBR (black color) as shown. In the marine and corrosive environment those fpm are more resistant

[@sailracingacademy4179]

Can you recommend where to source the seals you recommend?

[@marcellobernabucci7970]

@@sailracingacademy4179 I found them easily at this French supplier: www.etancheite.ebootik.net/accueil

[@ford3019]

Do you know if the double lip seals will fit an SD20 saildrive?

[@ilaria5639]

where can i buy this upgrade kit?

[@fairnessme5060]

Where I can buy this upgrade kits?

[@brettchapman8453]

You can send us an email at [e-mail] and tell us what you need, your address etc and we will send you the upgrade

[@glennlewman1377]

Can you tell us where to get the upgrade kit. Can you add a link?

[@brettchapman8453]

Our email address [e-mail] is covered/mentioned in the Video.

[@MarcoChristensen]

Have you seen my order?