Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

[ntheyer]

I started up my 'new to me' 1987 Searay Seville With Merc 470 and Alpha 1 and I heard a 'howling' type of sound in neutral, forward and reverse and regardless of engine speed. I have yet to remove the outdrive and inspect the oil and bearing, but have already ordered the transom repair kit, impeller and shift cable and just decided to replace it all so I know that it has been done.<br /><br />I was reading up in the Merc Manual the procedure for gimbal bearing replacement and it calls for a special Gimbal Bearing tool to drive the bearing in. That tool is around $80 and I was just wondering, can this be done without special tools? Can I just hammer it it with wood or something else strong, but not a screwdriver? I will rent a slide hammer to remove the bearing, but was just wondering if I could tackle this myself without special tools.<br /><br />I have the engine alignment tool/bar and I am getting the bellows expander tool since they are really needed it seems.<br /><br />Thanks for your help.

 

[qystan]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

It is possbible without the bellow tool, I have seen it being done. They used a long screwdriver with the tip cutoff, essentially a long rod and tapped the bearing into place at the outer bearing race. Must ensure not to knock/hammer on the inner race to prevent damage.<br /><br />Result, a pretty ugly looking bearing at the end but works. <br /><br />Personally I would get the tool. In my case, I got one machined. The method risk cocking the bearing and getting into trouble. Secondly, as you can only tap lightly, ensuring its fully seated will be a challenge.<br /><br />The engine alignment tool is a must. Bellow tool is also a must to make life easier.

 

[Don S]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

The special tool allows you to install the new bearing without damaging the bearing. Loose one bearing by damage and how much did that tool cost. Even if you buy and want to sell it, there is ebay. You might even find one there.<br />Boating isn't cheap, if it was, everyone would do it.

 

[ntheyer]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

All right. I haven't questioned you yet, so I won't start now... I'll get the tool.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

You can install the bearing by gently tapping and driving it into place.Be SURE to only strike the outer diameter of the bearing.Freezing it in the fridge does help.<br /><br />Unfortunately if it doesn't go in with or without the tool,and you use the slide hammer to remove and try again ....... you need a new bearing.<br /><br />DHP

 

[lilmandavis]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

i rented the tool for 5 bucks at the marine trading post left a deposit and got that back. check your local parts supplier

 

[Don Crandol]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

A 2.5" PVC coupling works fine about $3<br />A 3" PVC coupling works good for setting the bellows retaining ring also.

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

You might want to buy/rent a puller too.<br />I couldn't get my gimbal brg. to budge with a slide hammer... I had to use a screw puller that pulled with smooth even pressure to pull it... I used my long brass drifts to install but I have installed a lot of antifriction bearings over the years. An install tool is best. If you hit the cage accidentally, or press on the inner race it's junk.

 

[ntheyer]

Re: Gimbal Bearing replacement without Special Tools?

These are all great ideas. I just came from Autozone and they lend out the slide hammer. I like the idea of the PVC pipes as well. That makes great sense. Thanks.