gimbal bearing problem??
 

I'm experiencing a muted grinding noise when I turn my Bravo drive. I don't hear it in neutral or when running in a straight line. The drive has 165 hours on it. I've researched here, and based on my new-found expertise in the area, it sure sounds like a gimbal bearing problem. Question is, can it be fixed by a proper greasing, or am I likely gonna have to have the bearings replaced. Also, is it a good idea to get the u-joints replaced at the same time?? Thanks in advance for the replies.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

...and, it seemed to start making the noise after I installed dual ram hydraulic steering, but seems to be getting progressively worse, so I don't think it's related to that.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

A bad gimbal bearing will usually make a whining noise when the drive is straight as well as turned. I would suspect a u-joint problem. You can try greasing the bearing first to see if the noise goes away. If it doesn't quiet down, pull the drive and spin the bearing with your fingers. it should spin freely.
While you have the drive off, inspect the u-joints. You can grease them and test the boat again, Or just replace them why you have the drive off.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

HP2: the drive is a 2003 - whereabouts is the grease point?? Thanks for the help.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

If you are looking at the back of the boat, the Grease point for the Gimbal bearing is on the right side of the gimbal housing....i'd say about the 4 o'clock position. It's a zerk with a plastic cap on it.

The drive u-joint zerks at on the u-joints themselves, and the drive needs to be pulled to get to these.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

Thanks for taking the time to help out.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

If it makes grinding / whinning noise when turning then more then likly IT IS the gimble brg!!!!

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

To finish off this story... gimbal bearing was the problem - replaced it and immediately picked back up 250 rpm and a FULL 3 mph on the top end that had slipped away slowly over the past couple of months. Boat runs a whole lot quieter too.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

nice.

Re: gimbal bearing problem??
 

glad to hear cheap fix !!!!!