Gimbal Ring/ hinge pins

BIGFUN

I have a 2004 312 with Bravo 3 drives (fresh water use) - I was told that the gimbal ring and hinge pins need replacing.  I am looking for some fedback on this repair, it would seem that a 6 year old boat should not have a problem with a part like this?
 
The mechanic stated that the Bravo 3 drives a very heavy and this is a common problem..........Comments

Babyboomer

I have a 270 and average about 75 hours a year and mine lasted 10 years, I also have a B3 mine cost me $2200. so on twins it's gonna thin your wallet. I've heard that rings last longer on twins. But when you look at how they are made the pin is stainless and the ring is allunium so no wonder the ring whears out first

Rich

Seems odd. never had to do that on any boat unless it was sitting in saltwater and rotted

captbob

Bravo III is a very heavy outdrive so there could be something to that.  Maybe you have a leak in the boot and water fouled them up, or did you grease them on a regular basis?   Good Luck

BIGFUN

That is the strange piece the boat has been in heated storage at the dealer and maintained by the dealer?  Boots look great, I never heard of this problem until this year?

Babyboomer

My 99 270 lasted 9 years $2000. + fix