1BIGJIM

iTrader: (1)

I changed the gimbal bearing a couple of years ago when I replaced the gimal ring. My transom assembly is a 1990.

The trim limit spaces are needed because the angle with the larger U-joint can/or will hit the housing. I think the spacers where $5 from Mercuriser. For testing when you trailer or raise the outdrive do not put it in the full up position.

If you have changed the gimbal bearing in the last few years chances are you already have it. If you still have the original from 1996 you got your moneys worth out of it.

I can send you the service Bulletin on changing to an X drive.
Pm or post your email address. I think I have it at home some where.

Mr Gadgets

Desert,
As BigJim says the newer bearings are all ok with the newer X drives. The difference is the newer bearing is offset by .050" (deeper) as I was told. The trim limit spacers stop the trim up movement so the ujoints dont get pinched by the yokes. So if you are just using the drive for a quick test, then make sure you dont trim it all the way up and you will be fine. How much.. well, if you measure your drive in the full up position, then when you remove it tip the inputshaft up, like it was in the trailer position. Now do that with the XR drive. If it has the old style very large ujoints you will see the difference in angle quite easily. If the XR has the Metric ujoints the difference is will not be much. Maybe BigJim can chime in about that bulletin if they mentioned the new and old style input shafts. Originally the gimbal bearing upgrade kit (new bearing and trim limit spacers) was designed to solve the problem with the old style input shaft. The newer Metric style (no grease fittings) has smaller ujoints and I am not sure if it causes the same interference problem that the old stlye had. Comparing the angle of an old style B1 input shaft and the new XR metric input shaft, it looks to me like they solved the original issue with the new shaft, but check to be on the safe side.

Hope this helps.
Dick

Blue242

Hi Dick,

I have an '88 B1 drive, and gimbal.. I also have an IMCO Extreme SC, and want to use it.. Do I need an XR Gimbal bearing to do that, or can I use it without trimming all the way up...?

Thanks,

R

Mr Gadgets

You have to have the newer bearing, because of the offset, the bearing is deeper, but you shouldnt rely on "not trimming it up" if this is more than just a test. In DM's case he just wanted to try it.. If you are goint to switch, definitely get the kit that has a new bearing, and trim limit spacers. I have one such kit in stock, if you need one, also have one or two replacement bearings without the kit, PM if you would like more info.

Dick

Blue242

Hi Dick,

Thanks..! I will give you a call when I am going to put on the new drive..

Thanks,

R

racer711

actually the red dot bearing is slightly thinner to accomodate the bigger u-joints. once installed , you do not have to switch back when installing the std bravo drive

DesertRage

iTrader: (2)

Thanks Mr Gagets!

I didn't know the X drives were updated with new smaller metric u-joints.

I will only "trailer" the drive as much as necessary. If I end up with an X drive I will be sure to add the ram spacers.

Is there a specific part number to ask for or will the local Mercury dealer know what the "Red Dot" bearing is?

Very good Info, thanks again.

Racer711, Thanks for clarifying that the new bearing can stay installed when switching back. This was still a little unclear to me... Not anymore.

I can't wait to give the shorty a try.

1BIGJIM

iTrader: (1)

That's the only one they make. Open it up and you will see a red dot.

You might already have one installed on your boat.

Good luck, can't wait to hear the results.