Steering tube question on Merc 150

[ufm82]

Hello All,
I have a 1993 Merc 150 and while working on the engine over the weekend and doing some regular maintenance I noticed that there is some play in the tube/shaft that the engine sits on. This is the tube that allows the engine to swivel left and right. I see a gap at the bottom on the tube, maybe 1/8"-1/4". When I pump in grease there it comes out the bottom of the tube. I did jack up the engine to force the lower section against the housing and then added grease- it came out the top gap now so I know everything in there is getting grease. If I wiggle the engine forward and backward or side to side, I see some play. How critical is this fit? Is it bushed or is it a bearing in there? My engine moves freely and has no drag so I'm not concerned about it but if there is something worn in there that I need to replace I will put it on the winter to-do list. Also, must the power head come off to service this tube?

UFM82

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Steering tube question on Merc 150

There is probably a bushing on top and bottom. if the play is slight(less than 3/8"), I would not worry about it.

I have not serviced the swivel bushings on a V6 motor, but I did service them on an IL4 Merc. You have to pull the gearcase and powerhead, plus the exhaust extension, rubber ride-guide mounts and a few other parts. It is a PIA for sure, especially since some bolts want to break, rather than come out.