Hey Spareparts

[cfelton]

Ive checked the u joints, the're new and move freely. Ill try the alignment tool,wobble thing when I pull it next time. Thanks Spare!

[cfelton]

Well, I found my vibration! I went to check the alignment on my 170 Merc/ Alpha one drive yesterday and I reached in and grabbed the drive shaft and can shake it all around. So my coupler is shot! I ordered one last night, 226.00 with shipping. Maybe this will take care of the vibration I've been feeling since I rebuilt the motor and drive. Seems its always something! This is the ONLY thing I havent replaced!!!! Will probably take a good day ta pull the motor and drive and get it in. Gotta get it right really quick, we are headed to Nags Head in 2 weeks!! Cant wait, We need a good vacation!!

[THEFERMANATOR]

The couplers on those are known to fail, aftermarkets are readily available for them.

[steplift20]

just my 2 cents
hows the prop is it bent or damaged look at it maybe thats the problem

[cfelton]

The prop is a new stainless prop, with no signs of damage and it vibrates in neutral ,on the hose , sittin in the yard . Ive almost ruled the drive and prop out. I can reach over and behind the motor and grab the drive input shaft and shake it around inside the coupler, so im thinking thats gotta be the culprit. This old 77 V has alot of room around the back of the motor but I think Ill just pull the motor completely out ta change out the coupling. Looks like I gotta pull off the engine bellhousing to get at the coupling bolts and ta get it out of the bellhousing hole. It won't be to bad of a job being I already had it out before. Probably can do it in a day (I hope).Thanks for all the info fellas! Ill let you all know how it turns out.

[spareparts]

if you can move teh drive shaft like that, I would have to agree that its teh coupler, most of yhe boats i work on you can't get back behind there. Double check the gimbal bearing while you have the drive off

[cfelton]

Will do!!! I replaced it when I rebuilt it but Ill check it out good when I pull the drive. Thanks again!!

[macojoe]

I blew a coupler one time in my 165 I/O and it was also the only thing I did not fix when I pulled the motor! It was at least easier to pull the motor the 2nd time

[cfelton]

I got my new coupler today. Its made by Mallory, hope its ok. Looks right . Did'nt realize it was so lightweight. I guess the outer assy is aluminum also. I'm shooting for Friday ta install it. I think I can just hold up on the rear of the motor, unbolt the bellhouseing and get right to it. I've got right much room around the back of the motor.