Please confirm orientation of a permaseal gimbal bearing

[TheRussian]

Hello,

I am replacing my gimbal bearing with a permaseal bearing that was included in the transom kit. Since it does not have a grease channel I wanted to make sure that I am installing it correctly.

I believe that the correct way is with the punch hole out and at 10 o'clock.

Could you please confirm?

Thanks!

 

[Fun Times]

I believe that the correct way is with the punch hole out and at 10 o'clock.

Yes it's still recommended by Mercruiser to install the new perma lube gimbal bearing with the colored Dot in the 10 o'clock position.

 

[TheRussian]

Thank you. My dot is just a punched dimple in the metal with some white coloured dry-glue-like substance smeared around. No actual colour.

 

[alldodge]

Yes it's still recommended by Mercruiser to install the new perma lube gimbal bearing with the colored Dot in the 10 o'clock position.

Not meaning to hijack but would really like some clarification. With a permaseal (sealed) bearing there is no way to grease, why is there a correct orientation for a round sealed bearing? :noidea:

 

[Fun Times]

My dot is just a punched dimple in the metal with some white colored dry-glue-like substance smeared around. No actual color.

White is one of the colors offered.

MC 09-13.pdf

 

[Fun Times]

Not meaning to hijack but would really like some clarification. With a permaseal (sealed) bearing there is no way to grease, why is there a correct orientation for a round sealed bearing? :noidea:

Honestly AD, I'm not 100% sure why they still want it installed at 10 o'clock as I've never recalled anyone saying there is a true symmetrical shaped reason for it to be at 10 o'clock. Much like the past 2001 gimbal bearing service bulletin, The latest service bulletin (Bulletin No. 2009-13 linked above) still says to install at the 10 o'clock position.

My only guess is they don't want the bearing installed with the slots facing you (while looking inwards at it) to avoid someone being able to reach in and turn the inner to remove it like in years passed. The colored dot could possibly be just an identification mark so it's easier to install in the so called correct orientation for things like, factory installation, warranty purposes of identifying things like possible fraud claims, correct bearing installed for the transom assembly model in question, etc.

Also below is a quote form a well respected Merc only service only dealer/owner here in CA,

Just for reference, we charge $200 labor to R&R the drive and replace and align the gimbal bearing. I would guess you'll spend that in tools. Also, it does matter which direction the new perma-grease bearings go in.

 

[Alumarine]

It could also be that if it's always installed in the same way one wouldn't make a mistake if they confused the 2 bearings?

 

[TheRussian]

Thanks everyone...
Funny guy Fun Times...