I have a 1985 bayliner with a 4 cyl Volvo Penta 270 it makes a low pitch growling sound while turning?

Question

the sharper you turn the louder it gets, it sounds fine while going in a straight line i have just purchased this boat and am capable of any repairs(auto mechanic) but am not very familier with boats thank you for any information

Answer 1

Could be gimbal bearing. Or U-joints. Either way if your going in to change one then go ahead and replace the other.

Answer 2

Not an expert but I've heard that when your gimbel (spelling?) bearing is going out it can make noises while you are turning. This bearing is in the outdrive.

Answer 3

I did a lot of sterndrive work on my previous boats. You have a bad gimbal bearing. You may also have bad U joints on the shaft as well. Pull the drive off the gimbal. Reach in and spin the gimbal bearing. You'll feel if it's rough. Examine the shaft as you move it around on the U joints. If there's any roughness or free play, the U joints should be replaced. These parts are very similar to what you'd expect to see on a car.

The gimbal failed on my 1987 260 at the end of 1998. Replacing the bearing was a two day project because every tool (factory service tool, aftermarket tool, and home made welded tool) I used would not remove the frozen bearing. Finally removed the bearing by drilling, chiseling and cutting it out of the housing. Took a day to do that since I didn't want to damage the transom plate.

Solved the sterndrive problem by buying a new Sea Ray the next year with twin V drives. If your gimbal bearing comes out easily with the puller, it's a two hour job. Otherwise...

Best regards,

Frank