Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

[NWVintage]

Hey everyone-

1978 MerCruiser 470 (I know, but I don't have the S/N with me - this is the model year of the engine/drive)
Mercruiser "R" sterndrive

I'm wondering what special tools I need in order to replace the gimbal bearing, exhaust and CV bellows, and the water hose. While I was checking the boat before our first outing of the year yesterday, I found a large hole in the water hose. I did a band-aid fix with a coupler and a portion of new hose but now I want to get in there and just do everything so I don't have to worry about it. I'm pretty sure that it's been 10 years or more since it's had any particular attention...

I have the manual and it lists a couple of special tools but I have no idea what they are or if there's a work-around. Input is appreciated.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

Yours should have hinge pins and not SS nails. remove the trim limit and sender, a 1/2 inch allen should work to take the pins out. Some hi-heat may be necessary if red lock-tite was used.

 

[bspeth]

Re: Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

Hey Doc,do you just heat the bolts(hinge pins)? And how much do you need to heat them,red or not so much?

 

[dubs283]

Re: Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

do you just heat the bolts(hinge pins)? And how much do you need to heat them,red or not so much?

you can use a propane torch and just heat the heads of the hinge pin bolts, 30 seconds is enough

you wont get them red hot unless you use oxy/acetalene - which would be WAY too much heat

 

[bspeth]

Re: Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

Good enough thanks.

 

[NWVintage]

Re: Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

Okay, sounds like a no for the removal of the housing.

What about installation of the gimbal bearing? I've seen some talk of that requiring a special tool to get it in there flush. Is there a workaround for that?

 

[bspeth]

Re: Mercruiser R pre-alpha bellows gimbal tools

I saw a guy on you tube who used the old gimbal bearing race on the end of a 2x4,when its time I think I will try it out.Others on here would know more than I however.