Bravo 3 U-joints "floppy"

[Mischief Managed]

My Bravo 3 has about well-maintained 400 hours. The U joints seemed a little noisier this Summer than they used to be, but I can feel no lash or runout in them at all and it's quite possible it's all in my head. The U joints are, however, very "floppy", meaning the bearings feel very loose and smooth and the input shaft just hangs loosely from the drive when the drive is on the stand. They seem to have no "stiction". I could swear they used to feel tighter. Is this normal?

 

[Don S]

Re: Bravo 3 U-joints "floppy"

I have had many, many ujoints feel perfect, with lots of hours, and only making a little noise. When taken apart, you can see worn grooves in the cross piece that will cause the noise. You just can't feel it.
If they are making noise, they probably need to be replaced.

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Bravo 3 U-joints "floppy"

Thanks. Guess I have a little project for the Winter.

 

[Shaun78]

Re: Bravo 3 U-joints "floppy"

What are some signs of the u-joints going bad? I only got to use my boat twice since I bought it. My Bravo 3 is stored in my garage so I can check it out if I know what to look for.

 

[Don S]

Re: Bravo 3 U-joints "floppy"

Start your own thread Shaun.