4.3GL SX-M Gimbal Shaft Wear Marks

[jimi]

I finally found the time to finish cleaning off my Gimbal Shaft during a u-joint change and notice some scuffing where the Gimbal bearing would ride.

It feels fairly smooth when I slide my finger over but it will catch my finger nail if I scratch it. The boat is 12 years old but only has between 500 and 800 hours on it.
Any opinions?

 

[Don S]

Re: 4.3GL SX-M Gimbal Shaft Wear Marks

There is nothing riding on the red section of your picture. Those marks mean nothing.

 

[dypcdiver]

Re: 4.3GL SX-M Gimbal Shaft Wear Marks

Very much as Don said, but while the shaft is out have a look at the oilseal that is located engine side of the gimbal bearing. It is not unknown for the garter spring to be dislodged.

 

[jimi]

Re: 4.3GL SX-M Gimbal Shaft Wear Marks

If the seal is shot and I don't replace it (part is back ordered), does anything bad happen?

 

[Don S]

Re: 4.3GL SX-M Gimbal Shaft Wear Marks

The seal is a dust seal, it doesn't keep grease in or water out, it basically keeps big chunks of dirt from getting into the bearing.

 

[jimi]

Re: 4.3GL SX-M Gimbal Shaft Wear Marks

thx