Merc Alpha One Swivel Shaft Seal

[Brentathon]

My swivel shaft seal leaks (where steering lever goes through transom); does anyone know the details of the job to replace this seal via engine removal (i.e. parts to disassemble, approx # hours, etc.)?
Most people do not want to try the procedure of drilling the access holes in the top of the gimbal housing.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Merc Alpha One Swivel Shaft Seal

I drilled holes, but if the engine is out, you would remove the bellhousing, and then the gimbal housing from the transom. Once it is off You remove the steering arm camping bolt and the swivel pin nut, and the swivel pin from the bottom of the gimbal ring. Remove the gimbal bearing clamping screws, use a slide hammer that threads into the upper swivel pin to pull it down and out. Pretty much as described here without the holes: http://www.mercstuff.com/gimbalringinst1.htm You might be able to do it with the housing on the boat, but the transom could be too thick to get to the clamping bolt and screw. Could take a couple of hours or 10. Depends on how easily it comes apart. For me the hardest part was getting the bottom swivel pin out. You will either have to buy or make a driver for the seals.

 

[Brentathon]

Re: Merc Alpha One Swivel Shaft Seal

How hard would you describe the "drilling holes" method? Because even boat mechanics seem to shy away from that procedure, and like to pull the engine.
I even already have the holes drilled, because years back when the seal was changed, the mechanic attempted that procedure, but said there was too much corrosion, so he then pulled the engine.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Merc Alpha One Swivel Shaft Seal

I even already have the holes drilled, because years back when the seal was changed, the mechanic attempted that procedure, but said there was too much corrosion, so he then pulled the engine.

If you have the holes, and if this wrench works as advertised and if the lower pin comes out easily, it should not be too bad. The biggest pain is loosening the swivel pin nut with a punch.