VP 225E/275 "how to remove driveshaft from upper unit"

[Raydar]

Good morning all, I have been a sleeper here and have enjoyed having 100% of my questions answered by previous threads (did I mention this is a fantastic site). I finally have an issue that needs answering, I am replacing the u-joints and bearings (the growling thing) in my boat. I have taken everything apart but cannot separate the driveshaft from the upper housing. I believe the manual says to remove the four allens (using heat) to remove the shaft -- but prior to adding any heat to this expensive item I wanted to ensure there wasnt something that I omitted. Looking at the diagram/schematic for the upper drive I cannot understand why the shaft "just wont come out"..

Some items;
yes the boot was filled with gunk and water (just bought the boat last year)
yes there is a vibration/growling while running and turning (maiden and last voyage until these parts are replaced)
no, there was no damage to the boot from the inside, just rubber deterioration in the grooves. (guess previous owner did not understand to keep drive down and straight)
Finally the u-joints are nice and tight, but I am replacing them due to their submersion in salt water and the amount of corrosion on them and everything within the boot..
the engine will be removed this weekend - the oil pan will be dropped and possibly the oil pump replaced (since the engine is out)

Any thoughts, help or should do's would be appreciated...

Thanks
Bill

 

[Don S]

Re: VP 225E/275 "how to remove driveshaft from upper unit"

Replace the bearings on the shaft in the flywheel cover. Water in the bellows usully means water in those too. The only way to change them is to pull the engine.
Here is the manual for that.
http://www.4shared.com/file/89797331/c4296b6f/AQ200_to_260_Service_Manual.html

Have the front seal in the upper gear box replaced, and probablly the sealing washer the seal rides on. In salt water they turn to rust (sand paper) on the front seal.
The Bearing preload and gear contact MUST be right if you want it to last.
If you feel you have the tools and ability to do that, fine. Here is the OEM manual, you decide.
http://www.4shared.com/account/file...o_DP-C_Drive_manual.html?sId=Y7b3I3ZLh0L6ZnTt

 

[Raydar]

Re: VP 225E/275 "how to remove driveshaft from upper unit"

The engine removal and bearings I have the tools and parts, (they were in bad shape too) the front seal and washer I will leave to the professionals.. Thank you for the information and advice it is appreciated..

 

[Raydar]

Re: VP 225E/275 "how to remove driveshaft from upper unit"

the engine came out smoothly this weekend. the bellhousing is removed and the bearings are shot! After reading many posts here I will take the extra time and do some maintenance including cleaning and painting the bilge, and rerouting all of the wires the right way in wire troughs. Had an interesting time building the gantry to remove the engine - lucky brother-in-law is a carpenter (and he will be there next to me working on the engine).

If there is any interest I will post some pictures... Don, thank you for the manuals - without these this project would have been doomed.

 

[Raydar]

Re: VP 225E/275 "how to remove driveshaft from upper unit"

replaced both bearing, both joints, both bellows, painted everything. this part is hopefully done. thanks again