Gimbal bearing change... double check

[90stingray]

Hey, i have a 90 4.3 V6 w/ alpha one. While engine is running there is a noticable growling grumbling noise coming from transom area. Gimbal bearing is suspect. I pulled the drive and sure enough feels rough when you put a little pressure to the sides while turning it. U joints feel good though... just gave them couple shots of grease. Pulled the bearing and seal. I rented the axle bearing puller from autozone. Man, that works great! Easy to do and nothing got damaged.

Now i went ahead and bought a alignment, seal driver, and bearing driver tool off ebay. Was $75 shipped to the house. Just want to make sure i am not forgetting anything.

I know i need a new seal and bearing. Thoughts on brands? Also, i know to install the grease holes lined up and check the alignment before drive install. So let me know if i need to check anything else... or any tips/tricks. Thanks fellas.

 

[wbrannies75]

Re: Gimbal bearing change... double check

All sounds good, just make sure that the grease hole is perfectly center and that alignment tool slides in nice, if not you will need to adjust your motor. If you don't do that you could experience vibration and wear out your coupler. Since you have it all apart, check all bellows, and as far as what make, use OEM parts, don't mess around with after market.

 

[90stingray]

Re: Gimbal bearing change... double check

Hey, does everyone install the bearing cartridge with the notches forward like facory? Or install it rear facing for ease of removal of just the bearing for next time. Thanks.

 

[90stingray]

Re: Gimbal bearing change... double check

Hey, does everyone install the bearing cartridge with the notches forward like facory? Or install it rear facing for ease of removal of just the bearing for next time. Thanks.

Anyone?

 

[90stingray]

Re: Gimbal bearing change... double check

Well, i am putting the bearing cartridge facing aft unless anyone says otherwise.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Gimbal bearing change... double check

You can and I have done it that way, but the carriers are machined to the bearing and the fit is better if you replace the whole deal. If properly maintained it should last for many many years so why not do it right?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Gimbal bearing change... double check

Hey, does everyone install the bearing cartridge with the notches forward like facory? Or install it rear facing for ease of removal of just the bearing for next time. Thanks.

Ayuh,... You can install it either way...
And,..
Next time, you still wanta change the Whole Thing...