cobra frozen gimbal assy.

[rojoc]

88' cobra outdrive extremely difficult to pivot with steering cable detached. Steering cable is free as well as steering wheel. All seemed well last season. Any suggestions???? I was able to clamp a 2x3 to the outdrive and moved the outdrive to port and starboard with much effort. I would assume salt water entered the pivot bearings. Perhaps if I work it back and forth it might free up. Anyone with a similar issue? Thanks in advance.
I have been using some crc penetrating spray on the upper and lower pivot bushings. The outdrive is becoming somewhat easier to move side to side. I'm hoping this works so a tear down will not be necessary.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Howdy,


You might take a look at parts breakout for the transom mount. http://epc.brp.com/

There's an upper steering bearing, and a lower steering pivot shaft, bearing and a seal. If you've been keeping them greased, they shouldn't be "frozen" after a winter sit.

OTOH, if they are binding, that could be evidence of something bad about to happen. I wouldn't want something to break at the wrong time (like during an emergency maneuver)

I would absolutely pull it apart and inspect all the bearings, bushings and seals.

Regards,


Rick