Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

[alancs]

Hello All,

I have a 2001 Chaparral 230 with a Bravo Three drive. I have what appears to be a classic worn gimbal ring, with about 4 to 6 inches of steering slop to either side. Tightening the bolts to 53 lb. does not improve it. You can clearly see where the ring has been worn by the steering shaft. I have read in the forums about replacing the gimbal ring and resigned myself to taking it in for the job this spring. I have decided to have the engine pulled and not go the plug route.

I got a call from the shop, and they are recommending that with the amount of play present that I replace the entire transom assembly? They say there is probably additional wear in the steering components and its easier to replace the entire assembly? For the parts alone they are quoting almost $3,000? Could this be necessary? You can clearly see where the steering shaft is stationary while the worn gimbal rotates around it while you move the outdrive from side to side. Once the gimbal ring contacts the steering shaft it is tight and moves no further. It would seem to me that a new ring would be all that's necessary.

I would appreciate some advice on whether it is really necessary to replace the entire transom assembly.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

Without inspecting it it's hard to say. But it usually isn't necessary to replace everything.
I know the boat is 10+ years old, and wear happens, but with the proper annual maintenance, that component doesn't wear out. Is the shop above the one who serviced the boat? If so, shame on them, and I wouldn't pay them a dime for anything.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

Ayuh,... It's no doubt Easier to replace the whole thing, 'n probably more Profitable for the Shop....

I'd find another Shop that knows how to replace what's worn, rather than complete assemblies...

 

[alancs]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

Yes this is the shop that services the boat. They told me at the end of 2009 that the ring was showing some wear, and would have to be replaced soon, but that it was not critical. The play has gotten progressively worse, which is why I decided to do it this year, but looking at how the components are assembled and how the gimbal ring functions, I just can't see how its possible that I need to replace the bell housing, trim cycliders, transom plate etc.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

Yes this is the shop that services the boat...

Then they are the problem. The part does NOT wear out in 8 years unless it is NOT serviced annually. Period. My 1997 Chap 2135's gimbal was as tight as the day it was new, when I sold the boat in 2008 with over 800 hours on it. You know why? Because I loosened the u-bolt, sprayed cleaner, and lubricant on the steering shaft and properly re-torqued it EVERY fall. That's how it's done.
At the end of 2009 if yours was a little loose, they could have saved it. Instead, they let it wear out and now are trying to sell you about $2500 in extra parts. RUN, don't walk, away from these guys.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

JR Marine http://www.jrmarine.com/Default.htm will rebuild your ring for $225. I would suggest you give Ron a call and tell him your situation, he will give you the straight scoop. IMHO your mechanic is trying to bone you big time.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

... IMHO your mechanic is trying to bone you big time.

That's the truth. And that's the nicest way I have have ever seen it said!

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

I really like JR Marine. I used their stuff last year to replace my gimbal ring (mine was broken). I documented the process here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2071101&id=1591328395&l=d339bdf789

 

[Eyeman]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

Yes this is the shop that services the boat...

Then they are the problem. The part does NOT wear out in 8 years unless it is NOT serviced annually. Period. My 1997 Chap 2135's gimbal was as tight as the day it was new, when I sold the boat in 2008 with over 800 hours on it. You know why? Because I loosened the u-bolt, sprayed cleaner, and lubricant on the steering shaft and properly re-torqued it EVERY fall. That's how it's done.
At the end of 2009 if yours was a little loose, they could have saved it. Instead, they let it wear out and now are trying to sell you about $2500 in extra parts. RUN, don't walk, away from these guys.

How do I gain access to the steering shaft, if I haven't ever cut an access port. Can I just pull the u-bolt nuts, push the u-bolt in slightly and spray some lub? What lub do you recommend? Thanks in advance.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Bravo Three Gimbal Ring

How do I gain access to the steering shaft, if I haven't ever cut an access port. Can I just pull the u-bolt nuts, push the u-bolt in slightly and spray some lub? What lub do you recommend? Thanks in advance.

You should probably start your own thread, so everyone can be sure of what you have. Anyway to answer the question: You don't. What we are talking about is the U-bolt that clamps the gimbal ring onto the upper swivel shaft. Shown here http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show...&bnbr=80&bdesc=Gimbal+Ring+And+Steering+Lever #22 is the U-bolt and #12 is the swivel shaft. I do not know the torque values for the Bravo 3, but it should be retorqued every year.