Some one please educate me. If an exhaust manifold has a crack in it what if any would be the signs and how does this happen. Next, what is the life expectancy on gimble bearings? What causes them to go bad? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

Exhaust Manifold if cracked on the inside can be water in the oil or worse, engine damage like a bent valve or bent rod. On the outside you will see a visible leak or wheeping.

The Gimball rings if taken care of will last a LONG while but if they get wet or not greesed then they will not last.

Jon

Thanks Jon, Supposedly the crack is on the outside. I never saw it

Is this on the new boat?

If the manifold is cast iron I would imagine you'd see a rust stain or mark where it's leaking.
If there's any doubt as to where the leak is I'm sure there's a way to pressure test it.
If they don't have a way to test it, I can tell them exactly how to do it. Anyone could do it.

a gimbal bearing will fail if the u joint bellows is weepy. also a motor out of alignment will shorten the life of a gimbal bearing.

Maintained properly, greased and motor in alignment, a gimbal will last a very long time. I had over 850 hrs and 12 seasons on the orig gimbals in my old boat and they were still like new.

Since you are in lake norman you should be fresh water. Salt water takes it's toll on these two items.

HP and rough conditions will also take is toll on the gimbals.

Improper maintenence can quickly degrade the gimals.

Assuming cast steel exhast manifolds. Salt water is probably the #1 cause of failure. Fresh water does very little damage in comparison.

If you are getting work done by a certian Sonic dealer (DAVEN) near lake norman your getting hosed for sure!