Engine Alignment Question

[rybad]

89 OMC Cobra 350/5.7 29'Four Winns

I replaced a gimbal bearing on stbd. side. After installing the new bearing, my alignment tool does not go through to the coupler. As I try to push it in, there is pressure pushing it doownward.

I think I have the bearing in straight, and as far as it goes. I used a huge socket and hammer to put it in (I've done it this way before).

My question is; Is is possible for the bearing to be in correctly, but not align like the old one? Or does it sound like I dont have the bearing in good.

I guess the alternative is the I have to re-align the engine.. (any tips)

Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[Don S]

Re: Engine Alignment Question

The internal ring of the gimbal bearing can be moved compared to the outside.
After installing the gimbal bearing, put the alignment bar into the coupler as far as you can, then bump it with a rubber mallet up and down, side to side and push the bar in some more. This will get the internal part of the bearing aligned with the coupler. May have to do that a couple of times to get the bearing aligned unless the engine was out of alignment before the change.

 

[rybad]

Re: Engine Alignment Question

Don; Thanks for the tip.

Someone else told me that too, but I didnt trust them. It seemed wierd to move the inner bearing to me, but I guess I am wrong. I'll do that tomorrow.

The engine was not misaligned before, I check the alignment every year, I only had to replace the bearing and u-joints because the bellow didnt hold up.

Thanks again.