{"product_id":"yamaha-gear-68u-45560-00-00","title":"Yamaha - Gear - 68U-45560-00-00","description":"\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1s4bj6g\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"68\"\u003eYamaha - Gear - Lower Unit Drivetrain Component - 68U-45560-00-00\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"75\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"rzkdgm\" data-start=\"79\" data-end=\"90\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"92\" data-end=\"547\"\u003eThis is one of those internal pieces you don’t think about until something feels off in the drive. The gear plays a direct role in transferring power from the engine down through the lower unit, and when it’s right, everything just runs smooth and quiet. When it’s worn, you’ll hear it before you see it—grinding, hesitation, or rough engagement. This is the kind of part you trust to hold up under long runs and heavy throttle without second-guessing it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"551\" data-end=\"554\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ma7m6t\" data-start=\"558\" data-end=\"573\"\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"575\" data-end=\"1002\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-start=\"577\" data-end=\"605\"\u003ePrecision-Cut Gear Teeth\u003c\/strong\u003e – Designed for smooth engagement and consistent power transfer through the lower unit.\u003cbr data-start=\"692\" data-end=\"696\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-start=\"698\" data-end=\"729\"\u003eHardened Steel Construction\u003c\/strong\u003e – Built to handle repeated load stress and resist premature wear.\u003cbr data-start=\"795\" data-end=\"799\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-start=\"801\" data-end=\"823\"\u003eDirect OEM Fitment\u003c\/strong\u003e – Matches factory specifications for proper alignment and operation.\u003cbr data-start=\"892\" data-end=\"896\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-start=\"898\" data-end=\"931\"\u003eBalanced Rotation Performance\u003c\/strong\u003e – Helps reduce vibration and noise during acceleration and cruising.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1006\" data-end=\"1009\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1qx5o2j\" data-start=\"1013\" data-end=\"1043\"\u003eEngine \u0026amp; Boat Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1045\" data-end=\"1116\"\u003eYamaha Outboard Models – Varies by application (confirm by part number)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1120\" data-end=\"1123\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1hryhf7\" data-start=\"1127\" data-end=\"1133\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1314\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1198\"\u003eQ: What are the signs this gear might be worn or failing?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1198\" data-end=\"1202\"\u003eA: You’ll usually notice grinding noises, slipping during acceleration, or a rough feel when shifting into gear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1318\" data-end=\"1530\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1318\" data-end=\"1399\"\u003eQ: Can I replace just this gear or do I need to rebuild the whole lower unit?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1399\" data-end=\"1403\"\u003eA: It depends on the wear. If other components show damage or metal contamination, a full inspection or rebuild is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1534\" data-end=\"1692\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1534\" data-end=\"1580\"\u003eQ: Is this something I can install myself?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1580\" data-end=\"1584\"\u003eA: It’s possible if you’re experienced with lower unit work, but proper shimming and alignment are critical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1696\" data-end=\"1878\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1696\" data-end=\"1743\"\u003eQ: How does saltwater use affect this part?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"1747\"\u003eA: Saltwater can accelerate wear if seals fail or maintenance is skipped, but the gear itself is built to handle marine conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1882\" data-end=\"2048\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1882\" data-end=\"1942\"\u003eQ: Should I replace bearings when installing a new gear?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1942\" data-end=\"1946\"\u003eA: It’s a smart move. Fresh bearings help ensure proper alignment and extend the life of the new gear.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yamaha","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46938140639523,"sku":"68U-45560-00-00","price":275.91,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/7410\/9475\/files\/PV236235.jpg?v=1698804474","url":"https:\/\/partsvu.com\/en-ca\/products\/yamaha-gear-68u-45560-00-00","provider":"PartsVu","version":"1.0","type":"link"}