280 drive has vibration when turning?

[jerama88]

Hi, I have a AQAD40B powering a 280 stern drive. I have noticed that a small vibration when turning has become alot worse. It was small at lower revs at first and now seems to carry on thru the range . The more you turn the worst it gets? I replaced stern drive oil @ 20 hours ago and there no signs of any gear damage etc. The bellows were not replaced but seemed fine.. Driving in a straight line is fine...Any known issues out there? possible UV joint issue? helmet bushings? Do they have a gimbal bearing?

the prop is new but I will try my old prop this weekend and cancel that out if nothing changes...

 

[tpenfield]

Re: 280 drive has vibration when turning?

U-joints . . .

 

[captmello]

Re: 280 drive has vibration when turning?

U-joints . . .

+1.

http://forums.iboats.com/mercruiser-i-o-inboard-engines-outdrives/outdrive-side-pin-removal-309095.html

 

[Don S]

Re: 280 drive has vibration when turning?

Agree with the ujoints being the cause of the vibration. Usually because the bellows failed and the ujoint got salt water in them. You could also have water in the bearing in the flywheel cover (aka Primary Drive Shaft bearings). Check to make sure the grease is not water contaminated. You can pull the aft seal out and look once you get the upper gear box off. They can also go bad and cause vibration, but it usually starts with the ujoints.

 

[jerama88]

Re: 280 drive has vibration when turning?

Thanks heaps everyone..Don S I will check the all of the above also on replacement of U joints as the vibration has increased over the last few outings....might as well do the works while she is up..the old 280 is a great drive thou for its size..

So one more thing...2 of U joints...seal kit essential also ? I have never removed upper drive on this one..

 

[Don S]

Re: 280 drive has vibration when turning?

Yes, there are 2 ujoints. Here is the service manual for that drive.