I have a 351 Ford with merctrans II TR out drive that is making a clattering noise in both forward and reverse when out of the water. It sounds like u joints, but they are new and tight. Noise is about the same regardless of outdrive steering or up-down position. It also has a growl in reverse.
I have removed out drive and removed the lower section. Didnt find anything so loose as to make that much noise. Installed just the top section, and the clatter is present. With no outdrive, the trans runs quiet. The output bearing feels smooth, but it does have some radial slop as measured by inserting a bar and working it side to side.
In recent history, the block was replaced with same mounts. Did not check motor alignment since I dont have a tool. When motor failed, i had to get towed for about 15 miles. I see a warning in the service manual about windmilling. I cant recall if i raised the drive for towing or not.
So, my questions are as follows:
1. Would minor engine alignment cause u joint clatter?
2. Is radial slop in the output bearing normal and would that cause clatter if not?
3. What damage would windmilling cause?
4. I assume the growl in reverse is just the straight cut gears without preload from thrust. Am I correct? Is that a problem?
I have removed out drive and removed the lower section. Didnt find anything so loose as to make that much noise. Installed just the top section, and the clatter is present. With no outdrive, the trans runs quiet. The output bearing feels smooth, but it does have some radial slop as measured by inserting a bar and working it side to side.
In recent history, the block was replaced with same mounts. Did not check motor alignment since I dont have a tool. When motor failed, i had to get towed for about 15 miles. I see a warning in the service manual about windmilling. I cant recall if i raised the drive for towing or not.
So, my questions are as follows:
1. Would minor engine alignment cause u joint clatter?
2. Is radial slop in the output bearing normal and would that cause clatter if not?
3. What damage would windmilling cause?
4. I assume the growl in reverse is just the straight cut gears without preload from thrust. Am I correct? Is that a problem?
