Bravo 3 Service Recommendations

andy_fandy_f Member Posts: 21 ✭✭
in Engine Discussions
Just pulled the Bravo 3 from our 2000 Rinker 232 Cuddy Cabin with a 7.4L. The reason I pulled the drive was I noticed one of my engine mounts were loose, so I am checking drive shaft alignment. When we purchased the boat 2 years ago the shop pulled the outdrive, pressure tested it, and replaced the gimbal bearing. Any recommendations on what I should service while I'm in there? The bellows look good, and I'll make sure the gimbal bearing is smooth, should I do anything else? Thanks in advance.  
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Answers

  • Michael TMichael T Member Posts: 7,241 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited February 2016
    IMO check cables and seals as well as the wires that comprise the Mercathode system. 
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  • craigswardmtbcraigswardmtb Member Posts: 1,015 ✭✭✭
    Replace all seals and orings.  Check the water pickup hose as it's known for getting gunked up and degrading over time. And lube the drive shaft/coupler and all cables. 
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  • Cableguy GregCableguy Greg Member Posts: 5,077 ✭✭✭✭✭
    If I had the drive off, I would replace the bellows and the shift boot. They might look good, but could fail, then you are pulling the drive again.
    2008 280 Express Cruiser, 6.2MPI, B3, Pittsburgh, PA "Blue Ayes" (Sold)
    2022 Cherokee 294GEBG Black Label land yacht. 
    Go Steelers!!!
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  • jme097jme097 Member Posts: 1,224 ✭✭✭
    How hard is pulling the drive on your own? I have the outdrive service done every fall to inspect and change the lube. Just curious as to how hard it is to your own
    Boat Name: Knot A Worry
    2007 280 Rinker Express 6.2L B3
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  • Handymans342Handymans342 Member Posts: 10,375 ✭✭✭✭✭
    Takes 2 people
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  • Michael TMichael T Member Posts: 7,241 ✭✭✭✭✭
    B lll is pretty heavy, in 2014 my tech removed both by himself. I was worried that he might strip the bolt lugs so for 2015 I insisted he use the shop's engine dolly.  Afterward he agreed that WAS the way to do it. 
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  • craigswardmtbcraigswardmtb Member Posts: 1,015 ✭✭✭
    I do it myself with a drive stand that I made out of wood and casters from Home Depot. It's not to bad. Off is easy, on takes a bit more elbow grease. 
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  • Michael TMichael T Member Posts: 7,241 ✭✭✭✭✭
    ....... and you have to line a few things up like the pilot tube etc. 
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  • LaReaLaRea Member, Moderator Posts: 8,072 mod
    While the drive is off, check the water pickup hose where it connects to the transom.  The fitting can get corroded and restrict water flow -- especially on salt-water boats.
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