Coupler Concerns

[RenkenII]

Ok, gimbal gearing is in place, I have the alignment tool and it will only go into the coupler a quarter inch. It goes easy, then abruptly stops. Looking in I can see burs that is keeping keeping the tool out. What am I looking at for a coupler change? Does the engine need to come out? 1987 RenKen Mercruiser 470.

Thank you in advance for the help.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Coupler Concerns

It sounds like the engine is fairly far out of alignment. The burrs may not be what is stopping the tool.

Just in case you are not aware of the alignment procedure . . . . You should be putting an even & thin coating of grease on the last segment of the tool - the part that goes into the coupler. The coupler teeth will make marks in the grease layer, showing the first point of contact. This pattern left on the alignment tool will tell you if the front of the engine is high or low. You adjust accordingly.

As the alignment is getting closer, the tool should go in farther. You then rotate the engine at 90 degress intervals and check the alignment again to make sure the coupler is true.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Coupler Concerns

First, did you center the gimbal bearing? If not you will show out of alignment. You need to slap the end of the alignment tool so the bearing is aligned to the coupler. Then you can staet to see if it;s aligned. Did the drive come off easy or hard?

 

[RenkenII]

Re: Coupler Concerns

Thanks Ted.

I'll keep working with the front adjustments. I have been using lots of grease as Don S recommends.

But just incase, what is involved in a coupler change?

 

[RenkenII]

Re: Coupler Concerns

I have slapped the tool many times and am finally at least center to the coupler opening and able to insert the tool about 1/4". I will continue trying to adjust.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Coupler Concerns

But just incase, what is involved in a coupler change?

Ayuh,.... The motor comes out, so's you can work on it's aft-side...

 

[RenkenII]

Re: Coupler Concerns

Well, I was really looking at the tool listed here and I think the one I have is wrong - it only has one taper down from the bearing size. I borrowed it, so tomorrow I'll get the right one and get this done. Man, I wasted alot of time on this. Thanks everyone.