How do I align my Sterndrive?

[swcolorado]

I seem to be having a bit of a problem reassembling the SX-M sterndrive on my 2001 Reinell 185.
I've used an alignment tool and it goes in just fine.
When trying to install my lower unit, the attached phots show how far I can get and no further.
Anyone have some words of advice?

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: How do I align my Sterndrive?

Not that i have worked a Volvo and i have only done one merc. but. did you change the gimble bearing? it looks like my be hanging on it. like it has to small of hole, only lettin it go in to just before the shoulder on the shaft.
As i said i may be way off base here, but its just a thought.

Also i see you dont have the prop on. try putting it on and turning it to align the splines as you put it in.

 

[Sparkinator]

Re: How do I align my Sterndrive?

I had a little trouble getting my drive back on. I had my son hold the drive in place, while I turned the crankshaft pulley with a breaker bar. Then it just slid on. The splines on the drive shaft and coupling weren't meshing together. You might accomplish the same thing by turning the prop.

 

[mattb1974]

Re: How do I align my Sterndrive?

went through this 2 days ago installing my SX-M drive. Turn prop shaft while slightly pushing in drive to make sure the drive shaft splines are engaging inside. Also check to be sure the ends of your lift cylinders are not hitting your drive and stopping further forward motion. Looks like they are touching in pic#3

 

[Don S]

Re: How do I align my Sterndrive?

From the picture, the shaft is already started into the coupler.
At this point, I would guess you are up againt the orings on the shaft (did you oil them). Or your alignment is out. Did the alingment bar go in easily all the way, or did you have to push it in after the initial start.
The alignment is no different than Mercruiser as far as how it's done.

Here is a thread that might help. Watch the videos
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=382029

 

[cobalt1999]

Re: How do I align my Sterndrive?

Where is your shift cable in photo #3, did you pull it out of the pivot housing? If not, maybe you forgot to feed it thru the outdrive?

 

[swcolorado]

Re: How do I align my Sterndrive?

I got it everyone. Thank you.
Had the transmission in neutral. Once I manually put it in gear and turned the prop shaft, it slid in.
Thanks for the comments.

By the way, yes, I did put marine grease on the o-rings.