Mercruiser alpha one gen 2 gimbal bearing and boots

[Lowlysubaruguy]

I’m going to replace the gimbal bearing and boots when I put my boat up for the winter there original it’s a 1996. I looked at an aftermarket bellows a couple years ago and it felt to be very thin compared to the factory boot. What brand or kit do you recommend I’m also going to install shift cable and lower unit water pump if there’s a particular brand for them as well. I’m not opposed to buying Mercruiser parts if there even available. I’m surprised I have not had an issue yet, other than a failed shift cable boot nothing has been replaced in this area the boots are just now showing minor cracking.

Being in the automotive field aftermarket parts are often very poor in quality id rather buy what will fit right and last The longest.

 

[achris]

I used aftermarket bellows once, just once...

Chris...

 

[Rick Stephens]

Stick with Merc brand. As you can see after getting 12 years out of the originals, the Merc stuff does last. The rubber feels more pliable and is a bunch easier to install.

 

[Lowlysubaruguy]

In my search for parts it looks like the genuine Mercruiser gimbal bearing is no longer greaseable? There are a couple of new old stock units on eBay. I grease mine the bearing was fine a couple years ago the bearing and bellows are now almost 24 years old so obviously I’m either lucky or I’m greasing the bearing enough.

Should i I go with the new design, a new old stock design or an aftermarket bearing.

 

[achris]

The sealed units are just as good as the greaseables. I think they are better. They don't die if you forget to grease them. And anything that reduces maintenance has to be a good thing, right?

There's not really a load on that bearing, so it lasting 24 years doesn't surprise me. Mine's currently 13 years old and still in 'as new' condition...

But I've been told carbs and points are better than MPI, so what would I know?

Chris....