Swapping intermediate units

[alws]

I am swapping early 70's GM OMC V8's. Can I swap the intermediates without pulling the ball gear assembly? It was rebuilt 3 yrs ago and the same outdrive is going back in service. When the interm is off is this when the drive train is aligned? I am using a OMC service manual, it doesn't cover anything I've posted.

 

[superbenk]

Re: Swapping intermediate units

Should be fine to swap intermediates without touching the ball gears. I'm not sure how much alignment is required for replacing the intermediate since the drive & motor all become one unit on a Stringer. The alignment comes with the orientation of the engine mounted on the stringers relative to the boat's hull.

 

[alws]

Re: Swapping intermediate units

So in order to align the drive, does the ball gear and shaft has to be removed anyway to insert the alignment tool?

Also I read that the intermediate and the bell housing should be removed together as one unit and separated after, and reinstalled the same way. This OMC service manual has no mention of gimbal bearing or coupler. Is the bearing there refering to right behind the ball gear and the coupler is where the the 2 shafts meet on the opposite end of the ball gear?

 

[superbenk]

Re: Swapping intermediate units

There is no gimble on a stringer. The intermediate attaches as a unit directly to the engine. Afaik there is no alignment. You're talking about the Stringer like it's a Mercruiser or Cobra drive - it's completely different.

 

[superbenk]

Re: Swapping intermediate units

Maybe this will help - exploded view of intermediate housing & picture of ball gear & shaft showing coupler plate. The coupler plate should bolt directly to the mating coupler plate on the engine crank shaft.

 

[alws]

Re: Swapping intermediate units

When I swap intermediates should the mating coupler plate be inspected? Also the pic you sent cannot be enlarged enough to be legible. I appreciate the swift response and help!

 

[superbenk]

Re: Swapping intermediate units

My bad, still getting used to the new attachment system. Here's the full-size version: https://picasaweb.google.com/superbenk/OMCMisc#5618790932041592322