Last Updated on June 20, 2025
Buying a used boat can be exciting, but it's important to know what to look for. One big thing to check, especially on boats with sterndrives, is the steering pin and gimbal ring. A worn one can be a real problem, costing a lot to fix and even being a safety issue. This quick guide will help you spot this common problem before you buy.
What to Look For When Buying a Used Sterndrive Boat
When you're checking out a used sterndrive boat, pay close attention to the steering. You want to make sure everything feels solid and tight. A loose steering system can mean big trouble down the road.
The Steering Pin and Gimbal Ring Problem
This issue often shows up more on Bravo drives, but you can sometimes see it on Alpha drives too. It happens when the stainless steel steering pin, which fits into an aluminum gimbal ring, gets worn out. This wear causes a lot of play in the steering.
Here's how to check for it:
- Wiggle the drive: Try moving the sterndrive unit by hand. If it moves a lot without the steering wheel moving at all, that's a bad sign. It means the pin and ring are worn.
Key Takeaways
- A worn steering pin and gimbal ring is a major safety concern.
- It's a very expensive repair because it usually means the engine has to be removed to replace the pin.
- The parts and labor for this fix can add up fast.
Why This Is a Big Deal
This isn't just a small fix. When the steering pin and gimbal ring are worn, it means the steering system isn't working right. This can make the boat hard to control, which is dangerous on the water. Plus, the repair is a big job. It involves taking out the engine to get to the pin, which means a lot of labor hours and costly parts.
So, before you buy that used sterndrive boat, make sure you do this check. It could save you a lot of headaches and a ton of cash down the line. It's always better to find these problems before you own the boat.
