Can't remove outdrive

robbyr1

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Oct 23, 2009
Messages
99
Hi folks. I've got a Volvo Penta SX-M outdrive that I can't remove. I removed the propeller, hoisted the drive with an eyebolt, removed the 3 bolts securing the shift cover. Then removed the jam nut from the shift cable, cotter pin, washer and brass nut. Removed the shift cable anchor screw. Removed the caps and pivot rod for the hydraulic cylinder. Finally, removed the 6 mounting bolts. All this per a seloc manual and a manual Don S. was kind enough to point me to. After all this, we tried pulling the drive unit back and off and it won't budge. There seems to be something attached inside that I'm missing but all the pulling we do doesn't make it move an inch. Am I missing something? Any help is GREATLY appreciated.
Thanks,
Rob
 

robbyr1

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Oct 23, 2009
Messages
99
Re: Can't remove outdrive

Thanks Don. I used the "piece of wood, then trim up" trick and it came off. Can you point me in the direction of where I can read up on if my u-joints/gimbal bearing/bellows need attention. Might as well open a couple other cans of worms while I'm replacing the motor :).
 

Augoose

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Mar 21, 2010
Messages
1,220
Re: Can't remove outdrive

Glad it was easier than mine! I'm sure Don will chime in but regarding the ujoints, did you hear any squeaking or scratching while underway before tearing it apart? Do the ujoints twist around in all directions freely without resistance or noise? When you let go of the ujoint drive shaft does it just hang down and swing a bit before stopping like a heavy rope hanging? Is there any rusty powder coating the ujoints? If not, ikely they are good. Grease them up.

Regarding the gimbal, stick you fingers in there and spin it - does it spin nice and smooth with no resistance, vibration or grinding? Is there plenty of grease in there which would have kept it lubed up?

Regarding the bellows- how old are yours? If you store the drive down (during summer and in winter only after draining water) and relieve the stretch they'll last a bit longer. Inspect them for any signs of cracking from dry rot- you can put up with some cracking on the exhaust but not the ujoint - if any doubt, replace them. Cheap insurance especially since the drive is off.
 

cr2k

Captain
Joined
Mar 19, 2009
Messages
3,730
Re: Can't remove outdrive

The gimbal bearing should not spin freely, Like a skateboard wheel, rather it will be absolutely smooth if it is good. Anything less and it's time for replacement.
 
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