[woodward33]

So I was out a week and a half ago, PERFECT day, flat water, cooler full of cold ones, Chicago Air Show about to start. We had JUST picked up the ladies and I was idling out of the harbor when all of a sudden I realized I was slowly losing speed and coming to a stop. I goosed the throttle a bit and the motor just revved. I knew right away what had happened. There was no pop, jolt, noise, NOTHING. Anyway, I tried to mess with the shift lever, took off the linkages, etc... but it was no use. Tow Boats US showed up and towed me 14 miles to my home harbor (Thank God there was beer in the cooler )

Anyway, mechanic looked at it and confirmed my worst fear. Coupler went bad.

Outdrive had to come off, motor had to be hoisted out, what a mess... Needless to say, as of 9:00 last night, the motor is back in, and now I'm just awaiting the outdrive to go on. While everything was torn off, I went ahead and had him replace the U-joints, Gimbal bearing, and water pump. What a way to spend the last two weeks of the Summer With any luck, it will be bolted back together today and I can still make it to the Mississippi River tomorrow for my Labor Day weekend.

I guess my question is, how often do you guys have your outdrives taken off and u-joints/bearings/whatever else greased and serviced? I've head some people say every season, and others claim every 3-4 seasons. I know its obviously dependent on how many hours you put on each Summer, but I'm just trying to get a feel for what other guys are doing.

Thanks!

[ShabahZ280]

"Converter", or "Coupler"? I had the same exact thing happen but it was my coupler that spun.

Most standard marine service places have outdrive service options. For example, here's the ones from my marina.

They recommend a full outdrive service every 100 hours. Usually called Option 1, or Plan A. This includes the removal and inspection of the drive, disassemble, inspect bearings & gears, pressure test and install new impeller, change gear lube, check prop, grease all fitting, and mount drive with a new gasket. This is always the most expensive option (around $300)

Option 2, or Plan B is recommended every 50 hours, includes removal and inspection of the drive, check parts, change lube, visual check of prop, grease all fittings, and check alignment. (around $200)

Option 3, or Plan C is recommended every fall haul out, and includes changing gear lube and inspecting prop. (around $100).


The choice is yours. I did the full service on the Z250 once every 3 years, and the second option every year.

[woodward33]

Ahh Dammit...I MEANT Coupler. I'll blame it on autocorrect

Thanks Chris. Appreciate it.

[Motoxxx43]

I just did a coupler in a very low hour boat. I think it only had about 100 hours on it. The alignment was way off, by over an inch on port side. The motor apparently settled a little. That was in a 97 Crownline.
My Shabah has had a new coupled put in as well. It is something every boat will need eventually. I get a head ache thinking about some of the newer boats and getting to the coupler. To me it looks like the boat is literally built around the motor making it very difficult to get the motor out for repairs.
A friend of mine has a lift, it made for a fun project! After doing the list of things you did I'm sure you will have a few seasons of problem free boating!!
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