Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

[DFW Miles]

I am going to replace my gimbal bearing this weekend (1988 Mercruiser Alpha One gen1) and wanted to know if I need to check the engine alignment with the alignment tool after I replace it. The engine is not being removed, bearing just being replaced. So is it 100% necessary?

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

It would be the wise thing to do.

 

[Raystownboater]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

Necessary? Nope. There are those that believe you should check the alignment everytime you remove the outdrive. Honestly, it only takes a few minutes and will save the new gimble bearing from premature failure

 

[achris]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

Using the tool after a bearing replacement also gets the bearing lined up right. It will line up as the yoke is slid in, but it's a lot easy if it's already done.

 

[DFW Miles]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

Thanks guys, I'm going to see if I can find an alignment tool to use this weekend. Just don't want to have to buy one right now. Thanks for the quick replies.

 

[achris]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

Try fleabay...

http://motors.shop.ebay.com/eBay-Mo...lignment+tool&_trksid=p5197.m570.l1313&_rdc=1

 

[fmalott]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

sorry guys for butting in i was going to post on were to find all the tools for the outdrive i was reading DFW probelm achris saved the day i just purchased the tools thanks guys

 

[Don S]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

Necessary? Nope.

Not exactly. Once installed, the inner portion of the gimbal bearing MUST be aligned to the coupler. The inside of the bearing can be moved around to any position, that is why they are called gimbal bearing. Until they are aligned with the alignment bar, they could be in any position.

 

[Allmand]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

No, it is not necessary unless you mess with the engine mounts...I just replaced my entire outdrive, gimbal bearing, and bellows. If you are not moving the engine you dont need it.

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

No, it is not necessary unless you mess with the engine mounts...I just replaced my entire outdrive, gimbal bearing, and bellows. If you are not moving the engine you dont need it.

Yep, you don't need it, just as long as your OK with the possibility of vibrations, and having to replace the new gimbal bearing with a new gimbal bearing.....

Honestly, how much does the tool cost that your guaranteed to use again? How much time does it take to do it RIGHT?

 

[Don S]

Re: Is it necessary to use engine alignment tool after replacing gimbal bearing?

Oh yes it is necessary. The inner portion of the bearing can be moved by just bumping it, plus the inner bearing may not be perpendicular to the outer race. Why do you think they use a gimbal bearing and not just a regular ball bearing ??????