Replacing Mercruiser #1 U-Joints

[JasonB]

How hard is it to replace u-joints on a #1 (888) drive? I've rebuilt the engine, replaced the gimbal ring, etc so I'm reasonably competent and will tackle most anything, just haven't done u-joints before and they are starting to make more noise. After 31 years, they have a right...

 

[Reel Poor]

Re: Replacing Mercruiser #1 U-Joints

Go to the link below and on the right side of the page click on "Drive Shaft Housing Disassembly"

Drive Manual

 

[Liquid_force]

Re: Replacing Mercruiser #1 U-Joints

Go to the link below and on the right side of the page click on "Drive Shaft Housing Disassembly"

Drive Manual

Better yet - U-joint assembly servicing > Disassembly & Reassembly

Once you pull the drive off the boat it's really no different than a car.
You'll either need a large c-clamp and large socket, or you can rent a u-joint press to get them apart.
Remove the C clips - press out an end cap. Again for the opposing bearings.
And the whole process again for the other side of the center section.
To reassemble you just need the c-clamp.
Be careful to make sure the caps are aligned properly when you start to clamp them back into place. If they start to go in at an angle they can be a pain to get seated correctly.
Be sure to grease them well if the new ones have fittings.