Anyone using the new style coupler? I see that it has more spline area, but is it really needed for a stock 502MPI motor? After all, isn't the most common failure do to misalignment or lack of lube? Also, wouldn't it make engine alignment a bit more touchy with the longer hub? And finally, would the regular alignment tool still work for the new style coupler? Thinking the longer spline will not let the tool slide in far enough to locate in the gimble bearing. Thanks

Can this be used in place of the "old type", curious minds want to know.

you can use the new couplers on older motors and the alignment tool will still work.this style coupler holds the grease around the spline better than the older ones.

I have on on my PQ, It aligned just like the old one, No problems yet after 1 season.

Hey jerry I've used alot of them ,,nice work ,and everything works(alinment tool)

I went through an alignment issue last year that Merc got in on...(that is Merc HQ in the US).They asked if we had the old style or the new style coupler.
The reason they said was because the old style can be responsible for transmitting an audible hum sound through the drive train (sometimes eliminated up to 85% with a good coupler greasing).The new style coupler apparently does'nt do this ...

hmmmmmmm

Ordered 2 couplers today.
Now just need to find the time to replace them. Jerry ain't looking forward to this job!

what's the merc part # and how much are they?

cig1988.....

from BAM site
old style #861523A9, $319 (need to verify pt # for your motor)
new style # 861523A7, $386

Sometimes you can get a better price. Read the following thread from awhile ago.

New style couplers

Jerry

Great info, thanks Jerry.