Re: Gimbal Bearing frozen and backwards
To all of you who replace just the centre of the gimbal bearing<br /><br /> DON'T<br /><br />Mercruiser specify, for very good reason, that the bearing and carrier are to be replaced as an assembly. These parts are matched. Replacing one without the other will seriously reduce the life of the assembly. At some point in the 80's (I think) they started to install the assembly so that the bearing couldn't be pulled out of the carrier. I applaud them for the idea. I have seen too many destroyed housings, yokes and uni joints to even consider not replacing them as an assembly.<br /><br />If the carrier is frozen in the housing, usually because of water damage, then the best way I use to remove it is to carefully drill 3 holes in the carrier and knock the bit out. The job of cleaning up the housing should also be done with care. If any corrosion or loose material stops the new carrier from fully seating then the drive will not seat fully home.