Shaft thru hull question

[1fastsedan]

Is there anything that goes in between the hull and the shaft? Does the shaft just sit right in the middle of the hull? I removed the hose where the shaft log meets to inspect and I noticed that it was just a large opening. Just wanted to make sure this was right.

When I align the shaft. I just need to make sure it's centered between the hull hole?

[RonT]

The short piece of hose is there to allow small movement as the engine torques, without this flex something has to break (2003,04 Elans) This is a proven time tested arrangement, when you loosen the hose clamp & slide the hose forward there should only be air gaps between the shaft & the shaft log opening, no orings, seals, caulk etc. here. The water intrusion is held back by the shaft packing.

[1fastsedan]

Great. I got the engine and shaft aligned. This is the first time I've worked with a direct drive and shaft log. It all makes sense now