Yes, Could not understand why, Merc went to the non grease able bearing. Maybe to save 1 machining step for the grease port in the housing. Usually the bearing for the XR has the drive side shoulder machined down on the inner bearing race. Also I have seen the engine side splined shaft show wear in the areas of the gimbal bearing surface at the o ring, which will cause chatter, indicating the universals are bad. .003-.005" wear, taper will cause this. Just something to look for.

The new Sierra brng is machined for the xr already

While it's out...

Check the fit where the square shaft is clamped into the gimbal ring. If it's not perfect, then get a new shaft and have the ring welded and remachined for it.

I'm not familiar with what your talking about. Ill have to get I. There and see it I can find it.

I'd assume he's talking about the upper swivel shaft. That the u-bolt clamps down.

Put it in BACKWARDS - you'll thank yourself next time it ****s the bed....

yep! sierra one,,made by SKF...

Stick your fingers in the brg. If its smooth an free of slack. I would not replace a good part that if no water has been there its fine. Just my .02 Artie

Where is the best place to buy the bearings from? Assuming you want the greasable Sierra ones.

Artie, mine is freezing up and is very hard to turn so I'm going to deal with it now while the motor is out. I agree with you on not replacing good parts.