Coupler Life Expectancy

[boatforever]

I have 3.7L 4cyl 165hp engine. I had to take out the motor for a rebuild, bad bearing.

I am trying decide whether I should replace the coupler while I have the motor out. How long should a coupler last for? I inspected the coupler and it looks like the rubber is in good shape but it has little stress marks. Is that normal? Right now is a very easy time to replace it, but it is $250.

Thanks in Advance.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Coupler Life Expectancy

The coupler should last the life of the boat. If it's aligned right with an alignment shaft and grease on the splines.You shouldn't have any trouble.
The shaft can be bought sometimes on E-bay or can be bought at a dealer. Jerry

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Coupler Life Expectancy

Howdy,

it probably depends on the HP of the engine.

My dad bought (new) a 1966 Mark Twain 18' with a 150 Mercruiser in it.

He used it continuously up until about 1995. (the hr meter broke in about 1985 at 1500 hrs.

I got it in 1997 and used it every summer until 2005 and sold it the summer of 2006.

I replaced the (original) coupler in 2005 when it finally failed.

So I guess I could say that the coupler lasted approx 39 years and probably 2000+ hrs.

The aluminum (core) splines were gone when I removed it. It looked like someone had drilled them out! The yoke and steel splines were perfect.


Now,

having said all that, (unless you have a kicker on the back), If I had the engine out, I would probably replace an old coupler. It will absolutely strand you if it fails.


Cheers,


Rick