Replacing u-joints on a 275 out drive

[MNfuncpl]

Hello. I have an older aq131a with the 275 out drive and it is making some rattling noises from the drive shaft area when its running. My question is... can you remove the drive shaft from the boat by taking the top part of the transmission off and sliding the shaft and the part of the transmission out? or does the motor and out drive need to be separated? Also can that bearing be replaced that you can see where the drive shaft goes thru it at the same time. Thanks.

 

[PatinIdaho]

Im no expert but i believe a AQ131 uses a single bearing PDS and will come out from the aft.
Remove the transmission, Remove seal, Remove keeper clip and the shaft bearing will slide out. Sometimes a little persuasion is needed.
Now is also a good time to change the bellows and always use a new O Ring when re installing the transmission.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Take LONG screwdriver or broom handle(something to telegraph sound)
Hold screwy to your ear and touch the shaft housing and listen for grinding or bad bearings.
Top of the drive off?Reach in and see how much play is on the shaft?
​The rattle could be from the coupler???

 

[PiratePast40]

On the 4 cylinder engines, yes, the PDS (Primary Drive Shaft) and single bearing can be removed from the back. Replace the forward seal while you're at it and look closely at the orientation. The seals aren't there to keep water out, that's the job of the bellows. Make sure you refill the cavity with grease before sealing it all up. U-joints are relatively easy to replace. There are plenty of good threads here that discuss that procedure. And obtain a manual before you get too far into it. If you have any indication of water in leakage, you'll need to determine the cause. It's most likely the bellows. If there was water in there, the forward seal washer o-ring on the gearbox could be damaged. make sure you do the pressure and vacuum tests so you can check that washer and seal. Would be a shame to put the boat back in the water before the proper maintenance was performed.

 

[MNfuncpl]

Thank you for the replays. I will tear into it this weekend and see what's going on in there.