Is it necessary to use alignment tool on this drive?

[boltonranger]

I was reading through some posts and saw this one.
<http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=208347>
The gentleman removed / re-installed his drive during his fortunate resurrection of this boat.

I noticed that no-one advised him regarding drive alignment. Is using the grease and alignment tool not necessary for something like greasing the u-joints?

I've read other posts that were very stringent about checking this etc..

I wanted to grease mine but was afraid to without the tool etc.
Is checking / fussing over alignment not necessary if your greasing the unit?

-br

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Is it necessary to use alignment tool on this drive?

Any time the drive is pulled it is advised to check alignment.
It not only makes installing the drive easier,it saves the splines and the coupler from premature wear.
Ebay is a good place to get the tool for around 40 bucks..

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: Is it necessary to use alignment tool on this drive?

yes, all Mercruiser drives require alignment.
OMC stringer drives are the exception to the rule.