Gimbal Bearing Check?

[SWTraver]

I have a 1988 Glastron with an Alpha One MR outdrive. How often does the gimbal bearing need to be replaced? Is there a way to check the bearing? The boat has a Mercruiser 3.0 motor. Thank you!
Stephen

 

[Bt Doctur]

remove the outdrive, stick 2 fingers in the bearing and turn it. If not silky smooth replace it. Kept dry, meaning no water entry and greased at yearly service intervels
will last for a very long time

 

[SWTraver]

Thank you Bt Doctur!

 

[jimn]

WRT greasing the gimbal bearing- if you find that the grease fitting on the transom plate has been replaced by a stainless set screw, DO NOT install a grease fitting and lube it! Many new bearings are permanently lubricated and the pressure from a grease gun will damage these.

It's supposed to be lubed/checked annually, but again, if it's the permanently lubed type, just check it and lube the U-joints. If the bearings stick, replace them and make a point of servicing them more regularly. This is an area that is neglected, IME.

 

[SWTraver]

Thank you Jimn! Good information to know.