Gimbal Bearing Alpha 1 Gen 2

77vetter

New Member
Dec 1, 2019
22
Boat Info
2005 200 Sport
Engines
4.3 MPI
We just bought a 2005 200 sport with 4.3 MPI Alpha 1 Gen 2 with 330 hours. Just wondering if we need to be concerned about the gimbal bearing and have that replaced before we pick it up from the dealer.

We had an older boat prior to this one and we had to have the gimbal bearing greased on that but not sure if that is required with this new boat. I read somewhere that they are now closed meaning they dont require grease?

We are going to the dealer replace the impeller but just wondering about having the gimbal bearing replaced as well before we pick it up in May.

Thoughts?
 
What about other maintenance? When were the shift and u-joint bellows last replaced?

If these are due to be replaced, then you could have the gimble bearing inspected when the drive is removed. As long as the gimble bearing has grease and doesn't get wet from leaking bellows, it should last a very long time. Look on the transom and see if there is a grease fitting for the gimble bearing.
 
As mentioned above, I would also make sure the bellows, trim senders and shift cable and alignment are all in good order - depending on how long (if ever) these were changed, it could be due. The life of these items can vary from 5yrs to 15yrs + depending on how the boat was used/stored. As far as the gimbal bearing, unless the bellows have leaked in the past, this can last indefinitely. For example, my 185 with the same engine/drive - I replaced the bellows/trim senders, shift cable for the first time at 15yrs. In my case the shift cable bellows had started to leak, so I did everything even though the U-Joint bellows were still in good shape. My gimbal bearing is fine - smooth when you turn it with your fingers and I keep it greased well. Don't see any reason to change it - ever. If your gimbal bearing is greasable, there will be a grease fitting on the STB side of the transom assembly - 4-5 pumps of grease each year should do it. If not, I would replace it at the same time the bellows are done.

The water pump impeller in these engines is very durable, I change mine every 3yrs and the old one still looks to be in decent shape, never had one fail - I also pull the drive at that time and check the gimbal bearing, inspect the bellows and check the alignment. I used to pull the drive every year, but found there is no reason for that with a dry stored boat. Now, if you are running in salt water, sandy areas, or leaving it in the water for long periods might need to service the water pump / outdrive more frequently.
 
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As mentioned above, I would also make sure the bellows, trim senders and shift cable and alignment are all in good order - depending on how long (if ever) these were changed, it could be due. The life of these items can vary from 5yrs to 15yrs + depending on how the boat was used/stored. As far as the gimbal bearing, unless the bellows have leaked in the past, this can last indefinitely. For example, my 185 with the same engine/drive - I replaced the bellows/trim senders, shift cable for the first time at 15yrs. In my case the shift cable bellows had started to leak, so I did everything even though the U-Joint bellows were still in good shape. My gimbal bearing is fine - smooth when you turn it with your fingers and I keep it greased well. Don't see any reason to change it - ever. If your gimbal bearing is greasable, there will be a grease fitting on the STB side of the transom assembly - 4-5 pumps of grease each year should do it. If not, I would replace it at the same time the bellows are done.

The water pump impeller in these engines is very durable, I change mine every 3yrs and the old one still looks to be in decent shape, never had one fail - I also pull the drive at that time and check the gimbal bearing, inspect the bellows and check the alignment. I used to pull the drive every year, but found there is no reason for that with a dry stored boat. Now, if you are running in salt water, sandy areas, or leaving it in the water for long periods might need to service the water pump / outdrive more frequently.

thanks for the great advice!
 
Also everyone looks past it buts its the number one engine kill.... Is exhaust Manifolds and Risies.... See when they were done last... And if in doubt change them or it might cost you a engine...
 

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