PSA: That 'quick' underwater thruster repair cost me 11 hours

Had a thruster on my SeaBotix ROV start acting up during a bridge inspection job down in Jacksonville. Thought it was a simple seal swap, should take an hour tops. Ended up fighting with corroded bolts for 4 hours, then found the shaft bearing was shot. Had to wait 3 more hours for a ride back to the shop, then another 4 hours to machine a replacement bushing. Next time I'm keeping a spare bearing set in my truck. Anyone else run into parts that just seem to take forever to get right?

3 comments

3 Comments

adam_robinson9d ago

Yeah, did you check the bolt torque specs before you started? In my world, those corrosion issues usually mean a previous guy cranked them down way too hard. Always seems like the simple jobs hide the worst surprises.

jordan3307d agoMost Upvoted

My neighbor cranks everything down with an impact gun and his 2008 truck is still running fine, so honestly I think it varies. Those corrosion issues could just be from moisture getting in over time, not necessarily a gorilla with a wrench. Maybe check it but don't lose sleep over it.

amy9759d ago

@adam_robinson you nailed it with that torque thing. The previous guy probably reefed on those bolts like he was building a bridge. Now I check EVERYTHING before assuming it's simple.