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I have a 288 with 5.0 l Sx drives. On my port engine, I hear a slight knocking sound only in neutral. As soon as the engine is in drive the noise goes away. I had my son crank the steering wheel left to right and back while I listened. The noise stayed the same. You have to listen carefully to har the noise. The dealer said as long as it isn't varying while you are turning, I am okay to haul out again in Sept.
Any ideas on what this noise is or different opinions on leaving it in the water until Sept.

Regards,

Mike

My guess would be the gimbal bearing. You can wait and have it replaced in sept. but do not let it sit over the winter, or if noise and or vibration get worse.
Also check bellows for any tears that may have allowed water to get in and destroy gimbal.

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2000 248 5.7L DP
'92, '94 SXI 750, '08 STX 15F, '12 Ultra LX 300
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Not sure on your drive, but on my SX, there is a grease fitting on the starboard side up close to the transom that is for the gimball bearing. Mine was near impossible to get to because of my transom design, but see if you have one and lube it.

That being said, if the gimball is making noise (search my posts for more info) then your bellow possibly has a leak and water is getting in there and could cause more damage to the u joints in addition to the gimball bearing. Might want to pull the drive and take a look.

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2010 Sea Hunt Triton 220 "Big Whiskey"
2003 FW Freedom 180 Volvo Penta 4.3GL/SX-M "It'll Do Four Now" (Sold)
2012 Avalanche LTZ 4X4