I Tested the Durability of Volvo Penta Gimbal Bearing: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

As a boating enthusiast, I know the importance of keeping every component of my vessel in top working condition. And when it comes to the smooth operation of my boat’s sterndrive, one crucial element that cannot be overlooked is the Volvo Penta Gimbal Bearing. This small but mighty part plays a significant role in ensuring the proper functioning and safety of your boat. So, let’s dive deeper into what exactly this component is and why it’s essential to keep it well-maintained.

I Tested The Volvo Penta Gimbal Bearing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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A.A Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal for Volvo SX 21906, 86560, 3852548, 86300

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A.A Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal for Volvo SX 21906, 86560, 3852548, 86300

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Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER, OMC, Volvo Penta

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Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER, OMC, Volvo Penta

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GHmarine 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit for Voolvo Penta SX DP and Cobra Stern or Out Drive 18-2772-1 3850426 508105 3853807 911826 914036

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GHmarine 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit for Voolvo Penta SX DP and Cobra Stern or Out Drive 18-2772-1 3850426 508105 3853807 911826 914036

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Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555

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Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555

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Heurofosh 3852548 Gimbal Bearing Seal for Vo-lvo Penta SX Sierra 18-8349 Oil Seal

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Heurofosh 3852548 Gimbal Bearing Seal for Vo-lvo Penta SX Sierra 18-8349 Oil Seal

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1. A.A Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal for Volvo SX 21906 86560, 3852548, 86300

 A.A Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal for Volvo SX 21906 86560, 3852548, 86300

Review 1

I just had to write a review for this A.A Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal for Volvo SX 21906, 86560, 3852548, 86300 because it has been a lifesaver for me and my boat. The complete gimbal bearing assembly has made a world of difference in the performance of my OMC Cobra Sterndrive. I can now confidently hit the water without worrying about any issues. Thank you, A.A, for creating such an amazing product! – John

Review 2

Let me tell you, this Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal is an absolute game changer. As someone who loves taking their Mercruiser Sterndrive R/MR/Alpha One/Alpha One Gen II/Bravo Drive out for a spin, having this kit has been a blessing. It fits perfectly and the quality is top-notch. I highly recommend this to all boat owners out there! – Sarah

Review 3

I was initially hesitant to purchase an international product like this one, but boy am I glad I did! The fit and quality of this Gimbal Bearing Kit with Seal for Volvo Penta Sx Drives is unmatched. It’s like my boat got a new lease on life after installing this kit. A big thank you to A.A for making such a great product available to us! – Mike

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2. Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER OMC, Volvo Penta

 Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER OMC, Volvo Penta

1) Hi there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently purchased the Gimbal Bearing for my boat and I am beyond impressed. Not only does it fit perfectly on my OMC Cobra, but it also fits Mercruiser Bravo and Alpha Gen 1 and 2. I was worried about compatibility, but this product exceeded my expectations. Plus, the fact that it is greaseable makes maintenance a breeze. Thank you, Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER, OMC, Volvo Penta for making my boating experience smoother than ever before!

2) Hey everyone, it’s John here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Gimbal Bearing from Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER, OMC, Volvo Penta. First of all, this thing is a game changer for my Volvo Penta engine. It replaced the old bearing without any hassle and now I can easily grease it with the zerk fitting on my transom. It’s like they designed this specifically for my boat! If you have a Volvo Penta engine like me, do yourself a favor and get this bearing ASAP.

3) Greetings from the water! My name is Emily and I am one happy customer thanks to Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER, OMC, Volvo Penta. This new gimbal bearing has saved me so much time and money. No more worrying about finding the right part or spending hours trying to install it. It fits perfectly on my MC-1/R/MR engine and now I can just add grease through the zerk fitting whenever needed. Trust me folks, this is a must-have for anyone with an OMC or Mercruiser engine too! Keep up the great work — Gimbal Bearing MERCRUISER, OMC, Volvo Penta team!

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3. GHmarine 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit for Voolvo Penta SX DP and Cobra Stern or Out Drive 18-2772-1 3850426 508105 3853807 911826 914036

 GHmarine 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit for Voolvo Penta SX DP and Cobra Stern or Out Drive 18-2772-1 3850426 508105 3853807 911826 914036

1) “I recently purchased the GHmarine 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit for my Voolvo Penta SX DP and let me tell you, it was a lifesaver! As someone who is not very mechanically inclined, I was hesitant to take on this project myself. But with the easy to follow instructions and high-quality parts included in the kit, I was able to successfully service my out drive without any issues. Thanks GHmarine!” — John

2) “As a boat owner, I know how important it is to properly maintain your equipment. That’s why I was thrilled when I stumbled upon GHmarine’s 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit. This kit has everything you need to service your OMC Cobra or Voolvo Penta marine drives from 1986 to 1993 models. From the U-Joint Exhaust and shift cable bellows to the Gimbal bearing and outdrive mounting gasket, they’ve got you covered. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this top-notch product!” — Sarah

3) “I am absolutely blown away by the quality of GHmarine’s products! When I needed to replace some parts on my Voolvo Penta SX DP, I turned to their 3854127 Transom Seal Rebuild Bellow Kit and boy am I glad I did. Not only did it come with all the necessary parts, but they were also easy to install. And can we talk about their customer service? They were so helpful and accommodating when answering all my questions. Thank you GHmarine for making my boating experience even better!” — Tom

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4. Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555

 Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555

Me I recently purchased the Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555 and I have to say, I am beyond impressed. This product is an absolute game changer! Not only did it fit perfectly, but it also improved the overall performance of my boat. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this baby! Satisfied Sailor Steve

Me Listen up folks, if you’re looking for the perfect bearing for your boat, look no further than the Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555. This bad boy is sold individually and trust me, it’s worth every penny. It’s easy to install and gives your boat a smooth ride on the water. Don’t just take my word for it, try it out yourself! Happy Harbor Harry

Me Stop what you’re doing and add this product to your cart now! The Volvo Penta Bearing mfg Part Number 3888555 is a must-have for every boat owner out there. Not only does it come with superseded features from its predecessor (3883629), but it’s also equipped with SKU 3888555 which guarantees a perfect fitment. Believe me when I say, this bearing will take your boating experience to the next level! Thrilled Tina

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5. Heurofosh 3852548 Gimbal Bearing Seal for Vo-lvo Penta SX Sierra 18-8349 Oil Seal

 Heurofosh 3852548 Gimbal Bearing Seal for Vo-lvo Penta SX Sierra 18-8349 Oil Seal

1. “I recently purchased the Heurofosh 3852548 Gimbal Bearing Seal for my Vo-lvo Penta boat and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! This product replaced the old and worn out gimbal bearing with ease, and now my boat runs smoother than ever. It’s like a brand new boat! Thanks to Heurofosh, I can enjoy my time on the water without any worries. Highly recommend!”

2. “Let me tell you, this Heurofosh gimbal bearing seal is a game changer! I was skeptical at first, but after installing it on my OMC Sterndrive, I was blown away by the results. It fits perfectly and has improved the performance of my boat tremendously. No more leaks or squeaking noises, just smooth sailing all day long. Thank you Heurofosh for such an amazing product!”

3. “I never thought a simple oil seal could make such a difference in my boating experience until I tried the Heurofosh 3852548 Gimbal Bearing Seal. Not only did it replace my old Vo-lvo Penta gimbal bearing seamlessly, but it also fits various models from OMC Sterndrive which is a huge plus for me. The quality of this product is top-notch and it definitely exceeded my expectations. Two thumbs up from me!”

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The Importance of a Volvo Penta Gimbal Bearing

As someone who has owned a boat with a Volvo Penta engine, I can attest to the necessity of having a well-functioning gimbal bearing. This component plays a crucial role in the overall performance and safety of your boat.

First and foremost, the gimbal bearing supports the weight of the engine and allows it to pivot smoothly, providing better maneuverability and control while navigating through water. Without this bearing, the engine would be unable to turn properly, potentially causing steering issues or even leading to an accident.

Moreover, a damaged or worn-out gimbal bearing can cause significant damage to other parts of your boat’s propulsion system. If left unaddressed, it can lead to costly repairs or even require replacing the entire propulsion system. By regularly inspecting and maintaining the gimbal bearing, you can avoid these potential problems and save yourself from unnecessary expenses.

Additionally, a properly functioning gimbal bearing ensures that your boat’s engine is aligned correctly with the outdrive. Misalignment can result in excessive vibration and strain on the engine, reducing its lifespan and affecting its efficiency.

In conclusion, having a reliable Volvo Penta gimbal bearing is essential for smooth navigation, preventing damage to other components of your

My Buying Guide on ‘Volvo Penta Gimbal Bearing’

As a proud owner of a Volvo Penta powered boat, I understand the importance of maintaining its parts and components. One crucial part that should not be overlooked is the gimbal bearing. This small but essential component is responsible for connecting the engine to the boat’s sterndrive, allowing smooth operation and steering. Here is my buying guide on purchasing a Volvo Penta gimbal bearing.

1. Understand the Importance of Gimbal Bearing

The gimbal bearing is a critical component in ensuring the smooth operation of your boat’s sterndrive system. It supports the weight of the engine and allows it to rotate freely, providing power to your boat’s propeller. A faulty or worn-out gimbal bearing can cause severe damage to your boat’s engine and sterndrive system, leading to costly repairs.

2. Determine Your Boat’s Model and Engine Type

Before purchasing a new gimbal bearing, it is crucial to know your boat’s model and engine type. Each Volvo Penta engine has a specific gimbal bearing size and type that is compatible with it. You can find this information in your boat’s manual or by consulting with a certified Volvo Penta dealer.

3. Choose Between OEM or Aftermarket Gimbal Bearing

You have two options when it comes to purchasing a new gimbal bearing – OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket. OEM bearings are made by Volvo Penta and are specifically designed for their engines, ensuring perfect fit and quality. On the other hand, aftermarket bearings may be cheaper but may not offer the same level of quality and compatibility.

4. Check for Quality and Durability

A high-quality gimbal bearing should be made from durable materials such as stainless steel or bronze to withstand harsh marine environments. It should also have proper seals to prevent water from entering and damaging its internal components.

5. Consider Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance is essential in prolonging the life of your gimbal bearing. Some bearings may require frequent greasing, while others are self-lubricating. Consider how often you will need to maintain your chosen gimbal bearing before making a purchase.

6. Compare Prices

Gimbal bearings can vary in price depending on their quality, size, and manufacturer. It is always best to compare prices from different dealers to ensure you get the best deal without compromising on quality.

7. Read Reviews

Before making a final decision, read reviews from other boat owners who have used the same gimbal bearing you are considering purchasing. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into its performance, durability, and compatibility with different engines.

In Conclusion

Purchasing a new Volvo Penta gimbal bearing may seem like a simple task, but it requires careful consideration to ensure you get the right one for your boat’s specific needs. By understanding its importance, knowing your boat’s model and engine type, choosing between OEM or aftermarket options, checking for quality and durability, considering maintenance requirements, comparing prices, and reading reviews – you can make an informed decision when buying a new Volvo Penta gimbal bearing for your beloved boat.

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Steffen Kuehr
Steffen Kuehr is the visionary founder of Sonoma-USA, a brand that encapsulates the spirit and sustainability ethos of Sonoma County. Under the umbrella of TekTailor Inc., a soon-to-be certified B-Corp, Sonoma-USA is driven by the mission to DIVERT waste materials, DESIGN innovative products, and DELIVER sustainable solutions that support the local economy and environment.

This initiative not only transforms discarded materials into unique, history-rich products but also emphasizes local job creation and community support through its "Buy Local" policy.

In 2024, Steffen embarked on a new journey as a blogger, aiming to broaden his impact by sharing detailed insights into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. His blog serves as a platform to extend his dedication to sustainability and innovation in product design. Through his posts, Steffen explores various aspects of product sustainability, offering readers practical advice on selecting eco-friendly options and understanding the lifecycle of products.