1997 Bravo III U-Joints - Replace With Perma Lube Version?

[Dangit]

Is it possible to replace the U-joints with grease fittings in a 1997 Bravo III drive with the Perma Lube versions? Does it make sense to do it? What would be approximate cost to replace them? Can anyone tell me what the lube interval is on mine with the grease fittings? The boat has a 5.7 Mercruiser engine used in fresh water.

Thank you.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: 1997 Bravo III U-Joints - Replace With Perma Lube Version?

Are you sure the 97 has Permalube fitting? My 1997 most certainly had grease fitting. You should grease them once a year, at the beginning of the year. Unless you put more than 100 hours or so on the drive. If they aren't worn out, don't replace them.

 

[Dangit]

Re: 1997 Bravo III U-Joints - Replace With Perma Lube Version?

Sorry, I meant to say my Bravo drive does not have the Permalube U-Joints and I was asking about the wisdom/advice regarding replacing them with the Permalubes.

Thank you.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: 1997 Bravo III U-Joints - Replace With Perma Lube Version?

Gotcha. And i'll say again, unless yours are worn out or otherwise broken, just grease 'em!

 

[45Auto]

Re: 1997 Bravo III U-Joints - Replace With Perma Lube Version?

Can anyone tell me what the lube interval is on mine with the grease fittings?

You should pull the outdrive annually for inspection and alignment. Grease the u-joints at the same time.

You should still do the annual drive inspection and alignment whether you have greasable u-joints or not. If they're bad, replace them with whatever floats your boat. If they're not bad, like TilliamWe says, just grease'm when you service the outdrive every year.

You can download Mercruiser Manual #11, 1988-1998 Bravo Sterndrives. It has the whole annual maintenance table in it.