Replacing MD180 drive broken plastic sproket with stainless steel 3rd party part

Oh just noted RogerDodger's comment from above.  The replacement price currently for the rear sprocket alone was 139$.  Looks like front is 129$.  The 349$ is for front and back along with covers, which typically you wouldn't need to replace unless damage from collision to pedals. 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FBR79DHJ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

agreed, just noticed you can get just the 2 sprockets for $268.  the full set is for if you want those extra pieces of shiny stainless steel, to impress the fish you pass over? lol

Thanks for this timely discussion.  My rear sprocket just went kaboom after 6 years, and just ordered the stainless steel replacement part.  Hoping the replacement process isn't too tough.

I've completely torn mine down 3 times.  Here is how I did it:
https://youtu.be/7XCgb8Sjbi0?si=Ux-SyREgxGrv8iFQ

Replacing a Broken String: A Bigger Project Than Expected (seriously was thinking just to buy a new assembly :-) )
My forward/reverse string broke recently, and I ended up replacing it with a 400 lb braided string ($12 for 100ft). Overall, I'd say this was at least twice the task of a simple reassembly. This time, I not only had to put everything back together but also had to figure out the best way to do it.
But was the perfect time to clean it and service it.

The most challenging part was pulling the new string through the plastic housing. The trick I found was to connect the end of the original broken string to a piece of sewing thread, and then tie the thread to the new braided string—that let me pull the new line through. Any bigger knot simpy would not go thru. I made sure to start with a significantly longer piece of new string than needed, which made it easier to work with. A super important detail is to be meticulous and not cross the lines when installing the new string.

Finally, I had to manually adjust the length of the string so that both fins would rotate equally and complete a full 180-degree rotation.

I was very pleased when everything was finally working perfectly!

Update, finally got around to installing the rear sprocket from Trident Part.  In changing one sprocket, I managed to somehow spend over 3 hours making every possible mistake reassembling, including dropping bearings, screwing up the forward/reverse cord,  installing the sprocket upside down and putting in the fin backwards (I'd be curious what the motion of the kayak would have been if I left it).  I was even following the video guide on Trident Part's website     Anwy finally done, now just need a clear weather day to test it out. 

May all your sprockets stay toothy

Captain Doko
Port of Edmonds