Re: replace of gimbal bearing
Gimbal bearings, I learned from a mechanic in mexico that a some Chevi wheel or engine bearings can be used instead of the expensive (in my case $90.) mercury bearing. It fit perfectly and ran for 3 years then I sold the boat. I think the Chevi bearing cost me less than $20. Also they don't replace starters there, they rebuild them and in many cases the only thing wrong with a starter is the armature which can be picked up at a junk yard for a few bucks and installed in the marine housing. Same with altenators, just use the screened housing. Since they can't get many parts in Mexico they have learned to improvise, and some do it very well. For those of you who live anywhere close to the border, take your engines, outdrives down to have them rebuilt. I can have a 100HP motor most any older brand (1970 to1990s totally rebuilt for around $250. labor.<br />Parts are sometimes somewhat higher there and used parts are almost impossible to find. so bring your own. Just food for thought.The diff in price could pay for a short Mexican vacation.
