Alpha One Shaft alignment, tool or no tool needed

[mikesearay270]

I've got twin engines, I dropped both lower units to replace impellers for prev maint. After making good head-way, I got cocky. Then pulled the upper gear housings off without any fuss knowing gimble bearings haven't been greased in over 5 years either. Upper gear housings came off pretty easy, shaft splines look good by my eye. Yes, it all needs lube. I want to know if an alignment tool is REALLY going to be necessary in the Spring when I put both back together with a new set of gaskets, o-rings, etc.
I'm not yet replacing gimble bearings, bell housing, gimble ring etc. THE QUESTION: Engine and gimble bearing alignment on both port and stbd has not changed by my removing the stern drives, has it?

I'd appreciate some input on what to expect reinstalling the stern drives. Is this a walk in the park or should I expect to walk the plank?
Mike

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Alpha One Shaft alignment, tool or no tool needed

if an alignment tool is REALLY going to be necessary in the Spring when I put both back together
Mike

The tool is used for two things, to check the alignment and to properly align the gimbal bearing with the engine coupler. It would be wise to check the alignment, and that can be done anytime in the next 6 months or so. If you don't want to spent the $40 or so for one on e-bay, see if you can borrow a tool from someone and check it.