U-Joint vibration

[Dave-R]

I have a Newer volvo sx drive with app. 50hrs. This is my first volvo drive, and I notice a little vibration when turning . The drive still has a year warranty left. I am going to pull the drive, check the bellows, grease, the shaft, and check alignmet. I'm not sure about the gimbal bearing and U-joints.
If they are bad, will I be able to feel it when I turn the shaft? I don't think the warranty would cover any of this, do you?
Thanks all.

 

[Bondo]

Re: U-Joint vibration

If they are bad, will I be able to feel it when I turn the shaft?

Ayuh,....
The Gimbel Bearing, you'll Feel it if it's getting Gritty,....
The U-joints have to be disassembled,+ Looked at, as you can't Feel the ridges......
But,....
With only 50hrs.,..... I'd Think you have Something Else going on....

 

[Don S]

Re: U-Joint vibration

Newer volvo sx

Describe newer, something like a year, or even a model number of engine or drive.
Is this an SXA drive?

What is the serial number of your engine? Could be a coupler problem. There is a Service bulletin on it, but it's only for certain serial numbers.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: U-Joint vibration

I found I was getting more vibration when my engine alignment was off. it more stress on the driveline which caused more vibration in turns.

 

[Dave-R]

Re: U-Joint vibration

Don S.
Let me give you a little history of the boat. 2003 seaswirl 230 BR.
5.7 GI-C 4012086375 Engine Outdrive is volvo SX-M 1.43 4202065450.
The marine dealer I bought it from, bought out a Seaswirl dealer that went
bankrupt in 2005 my dealer had a heck of a time getting a clear title.
Long story short,I bought the boat new last February with a two year
volvo drive warranty. Last winter I drained the drive and the oil looked great.
I am going to pull the drive and do a gimble and bellows replacement . I also have a new water impeller.
Thanks Dave-R

 

[Don S]

Re: U-Joint vibration

Well, that was way before the coupler problem, but on occassion a coupler from Merc or Volvo would be off. Brand new.
When you pull the drive, you will need an alignment bar, (an aftermarket or a Mercruiser one, or one from ebay will work doesn't have to be Volvo) to check the alignment. To check it, it should slide in and out of the coupler easily. Turn the engine a 1/4 turn and try again, till you go all the way around. It should be the same of VERY close to it. If there is one point where it's real hard or impossible to put in, the coupler is bad.