Upper steering swivel shaft

[Leedanger]

Serial numbers are missing on the transom plate andn not the original outdrive, but Im using 4898730-6225576 serial number range...(260 V8). Steering wheel movement gets to the steering lever assembly, but doesnt relay to the bell housing. Looks like the upper steering swivel is shot (Round/Splined). Never done one with the motor still in using the tap & plugs method, I've always just pulled the engine and plate then replaced in on the bench. Do you guys that have done it the other way prefer it/ think its faster? I've also never done the splined style swivel shaftt all...Does the whole gimbal ring have to be replaced or can I do just the swivel shaft? Lastly, does anyone have this procedure written up already somewhere (other then the manual of course).
Thanks as always.

 

[alldodge]

Your serial number tells me it's for a 470 and I do my best to stay clear of these, but since no one has commented I'll give it a quick try. Take it for what it's worth, maybe nothing

Serial numbers are missing on the transom plate andn not the original outdrive, but Im using 4898730-6225576 serial number range...(260 V8). Steering wheel movement gets to the steering lever assembly, but doesnt relay to the bell housing. Looks like the upper steering swivel is shot (Round/Splined). Never done one with the motor still in using the tap & plugs method, I've always just pulled the engine and plate then replaced in on the bench. Do you guys that have done it the other way prefer it/ think its faster?

It's only faster if it's easy to pull the motor. I've done it but drilled the holes on the side (Merc method), fairly easy enough.

I've also never done the splined style swivel shaftt all...Does the whole gimbal ring have to be replaced or can I do just the swivel shaft?

I don't think they make the splined shaft any more. Also the square shaft is stronger and has less issues. I recommend replacing both shaft and ring, will also need the U-bolt . While your at it replace the bushing and seal.

Lastly, does anyone have this procedure written up already somewhere (other then the manual of course).
Thanks as always.

Sure don't as before just used the Merc method

http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show...bdesc=GIMBAL+RING+ASSEMBLY+AND+STEERING+LEVER

Ring 94993A7
Shaft 88302A2

 

[fieromx3]

i dont think you can put a square/square steering pin into the transom assembly of a square/spline. the diameters between the shafts that go into the transom assembly re of different diameters. hopefully someone who has great knowledge can chime in

 

[stonyloam]

Some info here:http://www.mercstuff.com/gimbalrings.htm

 

[Leedanger]

Ok. Thanks. Can anyone tell me if an older style gimbal housing will fit? I have another one here, but it has the cotter pin hinge, not the threaded style hinge pin. It's in decent shape if I do the bellows and bearing. Looking for the cheapest route on this one.