How do I install this gimble assembly?

[journey]

Last year while boating, the gimble ring cracked on my 1987 Alpha One outdrive. Because of the extensive saltwater corrosion to the drive, I purchase the following item on eBay which is a complete gimble assembly:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130003042267

My question is, what do I need to do to install this? Will I need to remove the engine from the boat? I rebuilt the engine two seasons ago, so I am familiar with the steps needed to remove the engine, but would be delighted to learn that this assembly will just bolt on the exterior transom of my boat without needing to remove the engine.

I would really appreciate it if someone could briefly explain to me what I will need to do this weekend to get this installed on my boat.

I have attached a picture of the drive showing the damaged gimbal ring.

Kent

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: How do I install this gimble assembly?

need to pull the engine,exaust, inner plate,remove old housing,install new housing.

 

[Reel Poor]

Re: How do I install this gimble assembly?

What motor are you running in your boat?

 

[journey]

Re: How do I install this gimble assembly?

What motor are you running in your boat?

It is an inline 4 cylinder 165HP, 3.7 liter. The engine was just overhauled and runs perfect.

BoatDr, when you say pull the inner plate, is this the plate that the engine sits on that mounts on the inside of the transom? Is that what holds the assembly to the outside of the transom?

Am I going to run into anything requiring special mercruiser tools (with the exception of the engine alignment tool?)

I appreciate the help.

Kent

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: How do I install this gimble assembly?

Yes to both questions.make sure you use a new transom gasket.

 

[Don S]

Re: How do I install this gimble assembly?

Sounds like you are in way over your head, without even knowing what questions to ask.
There is a lot more to it than what it looks like, and a lot of mistakes can be made if you don't have a clue of what to look for or expect. And some of them can be quite expensive.
One rule of thumb. IF you take something apart and it has a gasket or seal, replace that gasket or seal, (Yes, orings are included)
Next get the OEM service manual. The good news is it't free and here is a link to the compete manual.

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/6/6covr3.pdf

For right now, and this particular progect, look at section 2. If you have problems figuring out how to run the manual, here is a direct link to section 2

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/6/6A2R3.PDF

 

[journey]

Re: How do I install this gimble assembly?

Sounds like you are in way over your head, without even knowing what questions to ask.

:% You've definitely got that one right! Unfortunately, I've really been bit by the boating bug, and the only way I can keep spending time on the water is if I do the repairs myself! I really appreciate the link to the service manual, that will be an enormous help. I am going to start to tackle this project this weekend. It took me a good five weekends to rebuild the engine, so I don't expect this will be a Saturday project.

Do I need to order the gaskets, seals & o-rings individually, or is there a relevant kit I can purchase? I appreciate the advice, and I'm sure you'll be hearing from me again next week! :^