Yes, thats the easy part.

I've done alot of these repairs over the years using the merc plug and special nut kit, this looks like something I may try, but what is the primary reason for doing it this way as to the merc way? how much does his kit cost?

I think it was around $50. Its faster. I had a bad headache when I did mine and it took me 6 hours. I could do it easily in 4 hours next time.

It seems faster and looks better also. I don't care for Merc's plugs. I've done it several times with Merc's kit but I do prefer pulling the engine and removing the gimbal housing for access. I have a lift in the shop and can get any engine out in under an hour. That way you can replace the gimbal housing to transom seal also, and exhaust seals. Also lets you inspect everything. But the kits good for someone that doesn't have access to a lift.

I've done two of them with that kit and its much better than drilling the holes in the sides like Merc says. I will never use the Merc method again.

do they have a repair kit for alpha's also, or just bravo's?

I am in the middle of trying to pull my gimble ring right now and having more problems. I cut out access through the front using jrmarines method and got the top nut loosened as far as I could and it is now topped out against the top of the transom assembly. I got the bolt that runs through the steering arm loosened a little. Does this bolt have to come all the way out? Also, how do I actually get this thing out. Please give me some advice guys. I am new to this and now stuck. Thanks you very much.
Brandon

What does this repair accomplish? IS it the side to side play or up and down play?

I have the side to side play. What was originally posted here was a different way to get access to the top nut to remove the gimble ring other than using the merc. way, which is near impossible on my boat without cutting out my swim steps.

the pinch bolt does not come all the way out, just good and loose, make sure the u-clamp on the gimble ring is loose and try to get the steering arm to move up so the swivel pin can drop down. once things start to move, it shouldn't be to bad.