Bravo gimbal housing compatibility

[SeattleMatt]

I need to replace the outer gimbal assembly plate for my bravo one. I have seen a few different items for sale and I'm not sure of the compatibility. Is there compatibility between the Alpha and the Bravo housing? Are there different gimbal housings for bravo, or are they all compatible?

 

[alldodge]

I need to replace the outer gimbal assembly plate for my bravo one. I have seen a few different items for sale and I'm not sure of the compatibility. Is there compatibility between the Alpha and the Bravo housing? Are there different gimbal housings for bravo, or are they all compatible?

The gimbal housing (Item 1) is not compatible with an Alpha.
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show...33.png&inbr=5398&bnbr=60&bdesc=GIMBAL+HOUSING

Bravo drives are designed to handle more HP. The housing are the same, the gimbal rings and bell housings change depending on HP (X and XR)

 

[SeattleMatt]

Thanks, any compatability differences over the years?

I just looked at an 88and it had 6 studs and 2 bolts on the bottom, whereas my 96 has all studs

 

[alldodge]

There should be NO bolts that I remember ever seeing, not saying that I've seen them all, but I would stay away from it.
My guess is your looking at an old Alpha like the one in the link below
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show...desc=GIMBAL+HOUSING+ASSEMBLY+AND+EXHAUST+HOSE

 

[SeattleMatt]

No Title

 

[alldodge]

Looks like the studs are either missing, or if the holes on the bottom are larger, then someone has drilled and taped them. They should all be studs, and it does look like a bravo with a lot of rust on the top pivot pin. Don't know what shape the pin and bearing is in from the pic, but will need a new seal at the least. Could be the person had some real rusting going on and replaced. I have one like it I replaced on my cruiser but not as much rust during my rebuild.

 

[Fun Times]

That one looks a bit rough in the important/expensive areas. How much are they asking for it?

The first design did use some bolts and or anode bolts such as item numbers 19 and 41, http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show_...GIMBAL+HOUSING

You may have an oil reservoir issue. 1988 vs. 1989 Bravo Drive
Unit and Transom Assembly Interchangeability

In 1998 the oil reservoir bulkhead fitting in the gimbal housing changed from a brass material to a glass filled composite material.