Mercruiser Alpha One Steering Noise/Knock

[rvisokey]

I have a 1992 Alpha One drive in my Baja boat. When I turn either left or right there is a clicking/knocking noise coming from the outdrive. This noise only occurs during turns and does not occur when driving straight. The more extreme the turn... the more extreme the noise. I have been told it is most likely a u-joint or a gimbel bearing going out. I checked the boots and there does not seem to be a puncture.<br /><br />My question: I have been quoted $1000-$1500 to replace this part(s). I haven't torn out an outdrive but I have the factory service manual and after looking through... I can't figure out why the high $$$ to fix? Is there something I am missing? Is this something a professional has to do?<br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br />Rich

 

[Trent]

Re: Mercruiser Alpha One Steering Noise/Knock

Turning is the u-joints. Some noise is normal because it puts more stress on the joints. Pull the drive and have the u-joints checked. The price to install new joints and a gimble bearing should be about 500 to 650.00

 

[tommays]

Re: Mercruiser Alpha One Steering Noise/Knock

if you rubber (bellows) is from 1992 its on borrowed time and you never no its gone bad till after it damages all the parts it keeps out of the water<br /><br />tommays