Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX *pics included*

[mtler]

Hello all,
here are some pictures of my engine coupler replacement. I started working on it after work (5pm) and the engine was bolted back in the boat at 8:30pm. I still have to connect the wiring and fuel/water hoses tomorrow morning.
Note: I had already removed the sterndrive a couple of days ago, enjoy!

 

[mtler]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

I used a 1/2ton chain block, it was easier than I expected.
I apologize I don't have step by step pictures, I was rushing to finish before the sun set.

 

[86 century]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Sounds like you where moving right along.

I hate to be that guy but did you find the cause of the failure.

 

[TimeZone]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Noticed you're in Montreal. Did you go with a Merc part or aftermarket?

Asking because I had two bad couplers from Merc earlier this summer. It might be a good idea to disconnect the coil and crank the engine to make sure the new coupler is running true before you get everything back together.

Here is a video of the new coupler Merc sent me.
A wobble like this will prevent you from getting a proper alignment.

 

[mtler]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

That must've been so frustrating!
Fortunately or unfortunately, I went with an aftermarket coupler (Sierra) due to availability in store vs the Mercruiser that had to be ordered, oh and a 100$ price difference.

The chain block is still attached, perhaps I will lift it and crank it to see if it turns straight! Thanks for the tip!

Noticed you're in Montreal. Did you go with a Merc part or aftermarket?

Asking because I had two bad couplers from Merc earlier this summer. It might be a good idea to disconnect the coil and crank the engine to make sure the new coupler is running true before you get everything back together.

Here is a video of the new coupler Merc sent me.
A wobble like this will prevent you from getting a proper alignment.

 

[mtler]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

I hit something hard under water a month ago and damaged my lower unit completely. I don`t know if the garage who fixed it aligned the engine or not...as he was telling me I don`t need an alignment...
I don`t have any rot issue and everything seems solid. I never trusted shops as you go in for something and you come out for another, but I had no choice as it was an insurrance claim.

Sounds like you where moving right along.

I hate to be that guy but did you find the cause of the failure.

 

[1960 Starflite]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

"I never trusted shops" Right on, I had the coupler changed on my 3.0 several years ago at a shop. Well, after 20 hours it was OUT again. I thought "I can do this", you're right, not a bad job at all. I had a heck of a time pulling the outdrive. After replacing the coupler and installing the engine, I bought the alignment shaft. I mounted the engine without changing the heigth of the front mount. I couldn't get the alignment shaft into the coupling. Long story, short. I had to raise the front of the engine 3/4" to get it right. The shop must have beat the outdrive in with a rubber mallet.(they went out of business, wonder why") I've since put a couple hundred hours on it without a problem.

Tom on Buckeye Lake

 

[TimeZone]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

That must've been so frustrating!
Fortunately or unfortunately, I went with an aftermarket coupler (Sierra) due to availability in store vs the Mercruiser that had to be ordered, oh and a 100$ price difference.

The chain block is still attached, perhaps I will lift it and crank it to see if it turns straight! Thanks for the tip!

After two bad Mercruiser couplings I ordered a Sierra and it was fine. You can probably just crank the engine where it sits and look through the gimbal housing to make sure. Have fun!

 

[mtler]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

I finished everything. I had to lower the engine (using the front adjusting nut) by 1/4 inch. The alignment tool slid in and out with ease, with the correct marks. Even after a 360 degree engine rotation, it was still perfect.
I will test the boat in the water next week-end and will start thinking about storage
Thanks for your inputs everyone!
Cheers

 

[Rick-101]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

What shop did you use? I'm from montreal, i tend to go to lachine nautique

 

[mtler]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

What shop did you use? I'm from montreal, i tend to go to lachine nautique

I was lucky enough for Lachine Nautique to have it in stock. The other shops (Thomas Laval & Bobino) didn`t have it in stock.
I do all my own work though, I just need these guys for parts or I will order online if I don`t need it rush.

 

[Rick-101]

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Re: Replacing engine coupler 3.0LX

Same, we are finishing up on a 18ft open bow rebuild. Major problem at Lachine is the "we'll call you" for the things that aren't in stock