1986 Mercruiser Gimble Housing Boots cracked

[Jimmy H.]

Hi everyone. I'm in the middle of a full restoration and while I'm waiting for more CSM I decided today to make an outdrive stand, drain the gear oil and inspect the gimble housing. I wont have the boat ready until early next year so I thought I should disassemble the outdrive and refinish the paint on all pieces over the winter. Of course I will also replace the impeller, seals, boots, hoses, grease, etc... I noticed the boots had slight cracking before but today I took a real close look and found one boot was cracked right open. I've read a bit about seperating the two parts to repair this. Will I need special tools or can I tackle it will a lot of time and patience?
Engine serial # 6903165 and Outdrive serial #6756585
Thanks

Yes that is my finger!

Thanks in advance
James

 

[Jimmy H.]

Re: 1986 Mercruiser Gimble Housing Boots cracked

I managed to remove all three parts of the gimble. Last part I need out is the shift cable. I'm not sure which end I need to take apart so I can slide the cable out.

Here is everything apart, nothing was really seized though I did use some heat and special tool on the side pins.

I cant get to this nut unless I remove the arm above. (sorry a bit blurry)

Should I just cut the cable and replace it all or can I remove the crimped end?

or does this sleeve on the right from the other end come off so I can pull the inner cable out?

Thanks all,