Re: mercruiser
I was well on my way to do the same thing on my 76. I took the drive to my local pro, and found the drive was shot. He couldn't even get the lower apart because of the salt water.<br /><br />Unfortunately, there are 'special' Mercruiser tools you will need if you will be replacing parts inside your drive. Unless you want to spend the $2000 bucks buying 'em (or whatever they cost), forget it. Have the pros do it.<br /><br />As far as the gimbal, you might be able to get away with doing the bellows, but inside the drive? Scared me off... Too many expensive tools you'll need, and all the shimming etc...<br /><br />If your bellhousing has the 12 point screws, you'll need a special tool for that (Get them on E-Bay) You'll also need an extra long 9/16 deep socket for the shift cable. (Also on E-Bay) <br />Assuming of course you'll be replacing it, which you should if it never has been serviced. There is also a 'bellows expanding tool', but from what I've been told on this forum, you really don't need it. Soaking the bellows in hot water seems to be the choice of the back-yarder.<br />You also ned to glue the bellows in as well.<br /><br />I actually made my own shift cable socket. I took a regular deep socket and cut it in half. I turned it down on a lathe and put in a 3" metal sleeve and welded it up. Works great!<br />So now I have a unique Craftsman-Mercrusier shift cable socket!<br /><br />After I learned my drive was shot, I gave up the fight. Probably going to buy a whole new drive and transom assembly.<br /><br />I like to do all my work too, but sometimes you have to give in and consult the pros!<br /><br />H.
