Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

[magic81]

I have a 2008 Crown Line with a Mercruiser inboard/outboard outdrive. I am trying to remove the unit but would like some input before I get started. I have never done this before but Im pretty handy with a wrench.

From the rear of the boat it looks pretty self explanatory (remove trim hydraulics and the 4 bolts attaching the outdrive to the hull) but I guess the main question is this:

Can the outdrive be removed just by unbolting the various bolts on the back of the boat? (In other words, without getting into disconnecting anything from the engine bay itself?) For example, when removing the driveshaft from a car all you have to do is remove the U-joints then the driveshaft just slides out from the tranny. Is it the same way with an outdrive or is there something (like a pin) that attaches the driveshaft to the motor.

Any input will be appreciated. Thanks fellas

BTW this is my first post, pleasure to talk with everyone....

 

[starsnstripers]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

There are plenty of pros on here that will be along to give you specifics on that model. One thing is i believe you need to have it shifted into forward gear to remove it. Iv'e learned that and seen on here that the manual doesn't tell you that. The same goes for the install. But i think yeah undo the hyd. pistons on the drive, remove nuts and wiggle er out. the troops are on the way, good luck

 

[Lou C]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

Do a search, there is actually an on line Merc manual that explains it, it was referenced in this forum under 'I broke the transom plate'.
I just did this with my OMC Cobra, I built an outdrive stand out of 2x6s and used adjustable bed casters under it so I can get it right up to the correct height. On a Cobra you undo the trim rams and there are 3 nuts on both sides of the drive to remove and it just slides off. Merc is similar but has to be in fwd. The stand is a good idea if you have any back problems

 

[flashback]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

yep, there so easy to get off, folks steal them...dis-connect the rams, remove 6 loc nuts and give it a jerk,,It weighs about 70 lbs or so, so hang on to it...hope this helps.......oh yea, like S&S said,, be sure your in forward gear as that lines up the shift lever ...

 

[jcbarry]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

As far as shifting the outdrive into gear to remove it, thats only true for the Alpha, which has to be in forward. It it is a Bravo outdrive, leave it in neutral.

 

[ziggy]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

would like some input

ya need to find out what drive ya got. i think their identified by serial number stamped on the upper. then get the appropreiate service manual for it. then you'll have the facts as merc sees it... and it'll tell ya exactly what needs to happen for you to do whatever it is yer up to.......

 

[watermellonI]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

It may take a very gentle prying on either side to break the seal loose from the gasket, use something soft like a piece of wooden wedge, on my alpha there is a small pry slot on either side once the seal is broken loose get ready with your help/stand she ll ease right off.

 

[watermellonI]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

oh yea, but first like Ziggy said GET A MANUAL

 

[Capt.T]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

Simple to remove, as stated in other reply's. Keep in mind that it is heavy, you may need some assistance........

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

Try this...........
http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/6/6A2R3.PDF​

 

[John_S]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

2008? Curious to why you are removing the drive. As others have stated, it is fairly easy.

 

[JustJason]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

same here.... why are you pulling the drive of an 08 boat????

 

[Don S]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

It's not hard to understand the need for pulling a 2008 drive. Running a drive that is 3' deep in 2 feet of water will do it every time. That is called an accident.
Trying to pull the drive without knowing what you are doing, or having the proper OEM manual is just asking for further problems.
You need Service Manual #14 not #6 linked to earlier. It only goes up to 1990.

 

[orion25]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

If you are like me keep in mind that you will have to put it back together......... I have forgot about the reassembly on some things and ran into trouble on numerous occasions

 

[John_S]

Re: Removing Outdrive unit...How do I do it? Difficult?

Don,

Was just trying to find out the bigger picture. There might be other things to look at or check. I just searched for his other posts and there is only one about concern of buying a stolen outdrive. OK, something happened, but it might be nice to know.