waterman

Hello,

I have a 05 Sunsation 288. My dealer told me last fall I need to replace the gimble ring (my steering is very loose). Before I call them I would like to know what replacing this usually costs. My engine is the 496ho.

Thanks

drpete3

First thought is maybe it just needs to be tightened.

waterman

Thanks, it has been done already. I have them look at it every year and they can't tighten it.

FIXX

iTrader: (2)

+1 get the wrench's out and try to tighten it yourself,,i bet you can tighten it..you boat is too new to be needing one already..

waterman

The engine has 350 hours. Two seasons ago they tightened the bolts. Last season after winterizing the motor the tech told me he can't tighten it anymore and said I should be good for this summer and seriously consider changing it in the fall. My impression was the bolts shouldn't be tightened after the outdrive is installed. I take care of my boat and thought that this was early to have this replaced but my steering is very loose.

obnoxus

nuts should be kept at 55 ft lbs always

Figure 2k-2500 depending how hard it is to get your engine out and if you need a swivel pin

may as well do bellows and shift cable and swivel pin seal while its apart

picklenjim

Engine shouldn't need to be pulled to change the gimble ring. Still though I would bet it's at least 2K. A new ring alone is like $900.

motor

iTrader: (3)

Engine doesn't have to be pulled ...but should be, to do it right . Mercruisers "fix" with drilling the gimble housing and using a dull chisel for working the steering shaft nut is not the best way .
Current list on ring is $994.29 you usually need the steering shaft $399.92.Add cost of boots, steering shaft seal and other small parts ...It can and will add up quick

matthewr

Goto JRMARINE.com. It will answer every question you have. They have a templete you can use to cut and get to your swivel pin. I just completed this job and it was super easy. The gimbal ring is whats going to cost. If its not cracked, JR Marine can fix it like new again. Give those guys a call, super good people.

waterman

Thank you to everyone who has replied. I am going to look over the website now. This is something that I will have done at the end of the season.

Lou