Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

[MCL]

Im changing a new engine for my glastron 199 sierra due to a cracked block.After we got the old engine out the guy at the marina pointed out that I have play in the upper gimbal bearing.Its part number 17.He told me that I need to remove the gimbal housign from the transom.

How hard is this job and do I need any special tools.The play is slight,but easily felt by hand.Im running a tight budget so im debating if its necessary,but then again I dont want to rebuild it again in a few months.

Matias

 

[Bondo]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

Ayuh,... It's pulled Through the bellhousing, only the drive needs pulling to get to it....

 

[45Auto]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

As Bondo says, to replace that bearing only the drive needs pulling AS LONG AS THE ENGINE IS ALREADY OUT!

Only way to change that bearing is to pull the engine or use the "Frankenstein Bolt" kit and cut holes in your transom shield if the engine is in the boat.

Spend the few extra bucks now to change the bearing and the seal while the engine is out, you'll be glad you did.

 

[Don S]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

For one thing, there is no such thing as an "Upper Gimbal bearing"
If you look at that picture in your link, you will find #17 is (What Mercruiser calls) roller bearing, gimbal housing, (upper). It's for the steering pivot shaft that goes thru the gimbal ring.
If you scroll down your link to item 17, it calls it a gimbal bearing and has a picture of a gimbal bearing. But it isn't.
To replace those bearings is a huge job. Go up to the Adults only sticky and download Merc service manual #6 and look at section 4B for what it takes to change them.

 

[MCL]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

Sorry I meant the roller bearing, gimbal housing, (upper).Already replaced the gimbal bearing.I have both the drive and motor out at the moment.

I took a look at it today and there is slight play in both the upper and lower.Its very small but it can be felt by hand and noise.I would estimate it to be 0.05-0.2mm both upper and lower.How much play is normal?

I looked at the manual and it seems like a very had job to do.Although I can access the steering lever from the engine compartment.Also how likely is that I need a new swiwel shaft.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

It is a pain. Not to doubt your mechanic, there is one other place where play can develop, that is between the gimbal ring and the square pivot pin. Try this: retorque the two gimbal ring clamping screws (at the top of the gimbal ring) to 55 ft lb. See if that removes the play. I may not know what I am talking about, but can't hurt, and should be done every year anyway. Good luck.

 

[MCL]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

The play is not in the square part that the gimbal ring squeeses.Nor is there any play in the steering lever.There is some play in both the upper and lower bearing/bushings.

 

[indy440]

Re: Play in upper gimbal bearing 1990 alpha one gen 1

just run it