Rock VS AlphaOne lwr drive = Bad news !!

[Bonanzadave]

Im into my 20th year of small Boat/Lake (fresh water) operation with virtually zero mishaps. Fishing, Skiing,Tubing,Fun !!! Ive always done all my own maintenance and winterizing (2 boats). I think I dinged a prop once....until yesterday. I took a direct rock shot to the lwr drive on my AlphaOne which punched a hole in the leading edge just fwd of the lwr drain hole :redface:. Didnt even scratch the prop / engine still runs fine until I shift and then it dies.

I have insurance (I think) but just wanted to ask.....what do I do now ????? The mechanic in me wants to start turning wrenches !!

Regards, Dave

1997 SeaRay 175BR 3.0L AlphaOne

 

[dubs283]

Re: Rock VS AlphaOne lwr drive = Bad news !!

time to get a new lower gear housing assy

or just a lower gear housing (empty) and swap all the internal parts, if they are still good (shimming required)

there are aftermarket lower units available for reasonable prices, with warranty

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Rock VS AlphaOne lwr drive = Bad news !!

I have insurance (I think) but just wanted to ask.....what do I do now ????? The mechanic in me wants to start turning wrenches !!

Regards, Dave

Howdy Dave! Welcome to iboats!!


CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY FIRST!

Don't let the mechanic do anything except give you an estimate.

They'll either replace the lower or the drive. You'll pay the deductible. (assuming you have coverage for accidental underwater "strikes")


Cheers,


Rick

 

[Don S]

Re: Rock VS AlphaOne lwr drive = Bad news !!

At this point, if you have been running the engine in neutral, the bearings in the upper are probably toast as well, since water doesn't make a very good lubricant.
The other thing to consider is the engine coupler. If you have shifted it into gear and it stalls the engine, that has to weaken the engine coupler.

As stated, First, call the Ins. Man.

 

[Bonanzadave]

Re: Rock VS AlphaOne lwr drive = Bad news !!

First, call the Ins. Man.

Thanks guys,

Ill call state farm ASAP. My policy says Coverage and Limits Boats, Equipment, Motors $9700. Deductibles 250. I hope that means Im covered. Then I gotta find someone to (trust) do the work....Have never done that.

I re-started the motor long enough to trim it up. Shifted. Died. That was it. It trims up and down fine but the trim gauge wont come down now. ????

Anyone know of a good shop in the Mpls south metro ?

 

[Don S]

Re: Rock VS AlphaOne lwr drive = Bad news !!

You want a certified Mercruiser dealer, not just a shop.