Alpha One Gen One Steering Pin Bearing Replacement

[San_Diego_SeaRay]

I'm trying to install a new Lower Gimbal Housing Bearing (Part #3 in this exploded view). I tested the bearing by seating it on the steering shaft prior to installing, and it spun nice and smooth. However, once I install the bearing the shaft is anything but smooth. Is there a specific way these bearing need to be installed? I know the later generation bushings have a slot that needs to be installed to one side. Was wondering if these bearings had something similar. Thanks!

 

[ImperialV184]

i just rebuilt an alpha one, pretty much took everything apart, it was used in salt water and it was a mess. the bearing you are talking about is a needle bearing. I did not have an upper needle bearing on my unit but i did have one in the gimbal ring. mine was ceased and was trash so i had to get a new one. there should be a small hole in the side of the bearing that aligns with a grease fitting. that is how the grease gets in the bearing on mine. if it was corroded the bearing may seam fines but actually has bean worn down, my new one had very little play in the bearings and did not spin like a ball bearing. keeping it strait is very important too. did you also replace the oil seal? part number 4?

 

[alldodge]

I'm trying to install a new Lower Gimbal Housing Bearing (Part #3 in this exploded view). I tested the bearing by seating it on the steering shaft prior to installing, and it spun nice and smooth. However, once I install the bearing the shaft is anything but smooth. Is there a specific way these bearing need to be installed? I know the later generation bushings have a slot that needs to be installed to one side. Was wondering if these bearings had something similar. Thanks!

As Imperial said it is a needle bearing, and if you did not use the bearing tool to put it in, you might have bent part of the carrier/housing. What did you use to install it with?