About to service my Stern Drive - Any tips?

[hardworking]

So, summer is coming and I am about to get the Sea Ray ready for the season. I have purchased a service kit for the Stern Drive including new rams, bellows gaskets etc.

However, I am thinking I should probably pull the bearing if I have the drive off, but not sure how to get it out or in. Watched a couple of youtube vids, and it looks like I need some specialty tools?? Anyone done this before?

Any tips - I am listening!!

Cheers
John

[BM]

Assuming a Mercruiser setup.

With the engine in gear and running, steer through full lock to lock. If you hear click noises like a front wheel drive with shot universal joints then the gimbal bearing may be shot.

If you remove the drive unit then stick your first 2 fingers into the gimbal bearing and feel if the bearing is smooth or notchy.

You need a 3 leg puller to remove the bearing. Genuine bearing about $150. Bearing shop, about $50.

[BM]

New trim rams are not a service item!!

[hardworking]

Thanks BM. I will do the motor test and let you know.

Re the Rams - No there are not. But the previous owner of the boat did not look after it, and I could have just done the seals, but I am replacing the entire Trim System - Rams and all.

Yes - it's a Mercruiser. If that's the cost of the bearing, I think I will be happy to just to replace it.

The puller - Like this one?? http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/3-JAW-Leg...35.m2548.l4275

[BM]

Yep that should do the trick. It's not hard to pull the bearing out.

[ThePinkPanther]

Make sure the bellows don't have a crack in them, usually along the seam, can be damn hard to see but will open up enough to let the old H2O in......


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[hardworking]

Thanks man. All the bellows are being replaced.