Bravo III outdrive low howl noise

[livnrdream]

2003, 260 Sundancer, 350 mag, 300 hours, BRAVO III, recently noticed low howl noise from outdrive in idle out of gear, louder when rpm increased to 1100, It also appears to be more vibration under load/power although normal passengers don't think so. The engine is running smooth. Definitely noise outside boat from outdrive area and doesn't sound like exhaust related. Anyone else run across this? Gear train, bearings etc.

 

[mwph]

I am not qualified to answer your question specifically but here is a good link to read up on while we wait for the more experienced guys to chime in......

http://www.outdriveshop.com/shutters.html

 

[SR Tech]

Chances are its probably your gimbel bearing. give it a few shots of grease if you noticed it toned down the noise then you have your culprit. Also check to see if you can hear in under the engine hatch.

 

[dsteele1]

Chances are its probably your gimbel bearing. give it a few shots of grease if you noticed it toned down the noise then you have your culprit. Also check to see if you can hear in under the engine hatch.

How often do you recommend that you change the gimbal bearing out under normal use? Are the 2006 Bravo III gimbal bearings sealed bearings or not?

Thanks! :grin:

 

[livnrdream]

Chances are its probably your gimbel bearing. give it a few shots of grease if you noticed it toned down the noise then you have your culprit. Also check to see if you can hear in under the engine hatch.

Thanks for the information. I did give it a few shots of grease. Nothing seemed to change but then it got louder. Boat is now winterized, will wait for spring to complete further testing.