New upper gear set, selecting the shims

[smbaker]

I'm installing a new upper gear set in my Alpha I Generation 2 stern drive. It's a two gear set, one hooks to the U-joint that goes to the motor, the other hooks to the vertical shaft in the stern drive. I've already pulled everything and have a parts set containing new gears, seals, bearings, shims, etc.

However, looking at the shop manual I see there are a couple of special tools that are needed to properly setup the shims. I'd like to avoid purchasing any more 1-time-use expensive tools if I can. Does anyone have a way to choose the correct number of shims for each gear without any special tools (I have feeler gauges, etc., the usual automotive stuff)

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: New upper gear set, selecting the shims

The very first one I ever rebuilt was done with Machinists Dye.Same as a racing rear.
Guess, assemble, spin it, dis-assemble and read the "heel and toe pattern". adjust heights accordingly. assemble, spin it, dis-assemble and read the "heel and toe pattern".
Untill it was correct.Start with the .025 and go from there.Although the correct tools do make it alot easier.

 

[muc]

Re: New upper gear set, selecting the shims

It?s possible --- anything is possible --- but would be so time consuming that the only person that I can think of who would attempt it, is someone stranded on a desert island.

If your new parts are MerCruiser AND you measured all the shims when you took it apart AND the drive was shimmed right before it went bad AND you can find a way to measure backlash on an drive that is shimmed right. This job could be done with gear marking compound to set the height of the two gears.

My guess is that it will be easier to buy/borrow the tools or hire somebody to do it for you.

 

[smbaker]

Re: New upper gear set, selecting the shims

It sounds like the alignment tools are a must, at least given my ability (continually dye/assemble/inspect cycles sounds unpleasant, nor would I necessarily know how to properly read the marks in the dye).

My first approach will probably see what it'll cost to get the local dealer to do the measurement for me using their tools, although in many ways I'd really rather do it myself.

What is a good source for these tools? Looks like I'll be needing them.

 

[mercs4mark]

Re: New upper gear set, selecting the shims

where are you located?