Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

[jaybeava]

Hello all,

I recently swapped a Mercruiser 3.0 (0F267543) from a '95 Bayliner 1952 cuddy into a 2001 Searay 180 (Transom 0L515514). I seem to have an alignment issue that I'm not very comfortable with. I installed the engine using the original hardware and checked the coupler alignment with an alignment tool. The initial alignment was a decent amount off and required the front to be lowered. After dropping the front to the lowest point, I am still only getting about 75-80% spline grease transfer around the alignment tool. I am checking this alignment using the old original gimbal bearing and planned to get a preliminary alignment set before replacing the gimbal. I tapped the alignment tool in 90 degree increments to help center as recommended but still get the same results. Does anyone have any idea why this would be giving me an issue? I'm assuming that Searay and Bayliner have their differences in how high the forward mount is designed into the hull but not so different as to require shimming in the rear? I'm reading/hearing that shimming should never be required. Help!

Jason

 

[alldodge]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

Is this a 3.0 swap with a 3.0 or some other engine use to be in the boat?

 

[jaybeava]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

The swap was with a 3.0 (0L329412). The prior owners overheated that engine.

 

[alldodge]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

I looked through both setups and can find no differences in the main items used (mount, transom plate). I'm not a 3.0 guru and don't see why your having the issue. Hope someone else will come in and assist

 

[jaybeava]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

Thanks for looking into that. I really wasn't sure where to go. I'm going to try to tap that gimbal around a bit more today. Both boats were running at one point and I can't believe it would be that far off but you never know I guess. Do you know if there's a way to check the coupler while the engine is installed? I checked it visually prior to installation but that was it.

 

[alldodge]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

Do you know if there's a way to check the coupler while the engine is installed? I checked it visually prior to installation but that was it.

Only way I know is install the drive and try to turn the engine with the prop, or if you have a spare spline shaft, rig something up so you can use a strong arm wrench.

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

Do you have the rear mount spring/washer/bolt/fiber washer installed properly?

I seem to remember the newer rear mount bushings don't require,,,, something (don't remember what) and the hardware is installed differently due to the bushings being taller. Though I doubt you swapped the inner transom plate that contains the bushings..

 

[jaybeava]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

I used the same bolt/spring/washer. The Merc dealer here in town said to try changing the spring and washer. That maybe it's a bit worn. Seems to me that it would have to be worn to half the height though which it's in pretty decent shape I thought. I did see that newer setup that you are referring to. I think its for '08 and up if I'm not mistaken. Maybe the engine bushings are pressed in too high?

 

[jaybeava]

Re: Merc 3.0 engine swap alignment issues

After trying again today I got it pretty close I think. I turned the engine a bit, slid the tool into coupler until it stopped and tapped it in 4 directions until it was closest. What I don't understand is that it seems like the gimbal alignment does all the aligning. To set the engine, all I did was drop the front (which happened to be all the way down) until the tool side in and then move the gimbal until the tool slid in easier. Is this right? I don't have the "warm and fuzzies" about this.