Mercury – Gimbal Bearing Perma-Lube | MC-1, R, MR, Alpha & Bravo Series | Precision Steel Construction | 879194A02

Overview

Any seasoned boater will tell you that the smoothest rides start with the parts you rarely see. The gimbal bearing is one of those quiet heroes—working nonstop, hidden deep in the transom, keeping your driveline aligned and your steering predictable. When it’s doing its job, you feel a steady, confident connection between the engine and the water. When it’s worn, the whole boat reminds you with vibration, noise, or an uneasy rumble. That’s why many of us stick with genuine Mercury Marine parts like the 879194A02 Perma-Lube Gimbal Bearing. It gives you that reassuring sense that your boat is ready for whatever the day brings—whether you’re cruising at sunrise or easing into a busy marina at dusk.

Key Features

• Replacement Perma-Lube gimbal bearing for select MerCruiser sterndrives
• Designed to maintain driveline alignment for smoother, quieter performance
• Precision machined for tight tolerances and long service life
• Complete bearing kit ready for installation
• Built to Mercury Marine’s original equipment standards

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits MerCruiser MC-1, R, and MR sterndrives (1974–1997)
• Fits select MerCruiser Alpha sterndrives
• Fits MerCruiser Bravo One sterndrives (1988–1995)
• Compatible with all OMC Cobra sterndrives
• Common on family runabouts, fishing boats, cruisers, and older performance hulls

Performance & Practical Benefits

A well-installed gimbal bearing changes the way your boat feels on the water. This Perma-Lube model holds alignment steady, reducing vibration and giving your driveline a smoother handoff between engine and propeller. You’ll feel the steering tighten up in a good way—more precise, more responsive, and more predictable when trimming or maneuvering.

The Perma-Lube design helps keep grease where it needs to be, protecting the rollers and extending bearing life even in older sterndrive systems. It’s built to stay quiet and stable under a wide range of operating angles, from slow trolling to long mid-range runs. And because it’s made to Mercury Marine’s exact specifications, you won’t have the fitment headaches or early wear that can come with lesser aftermarket parts.

For boaters who run older sterndrives, this bearing offers a noticeable upgrade in reliability and smoothness—almost like giving your boat a younger, stronger backbone.

Why Buy OEM

When it comes to gimbal bearings, precision matters.

• Mercury Marine OEM bearings match the exact tolerances your drive requires
• Aftermarket options often fall short on alignment accuracy and material quality
• OEM ensures smoother operation and reduced wear on U-joints and couplers
• Designed to last longer, saving money by preventing downstream driveline repairs
• Installs correctly the first time, without the guesswork

A gimbal bearing is not someplace to cut corners. Choosing the genuine Mercury Marine part number 879194A02 means choosing reliability you can feel every time you shift into gear.

FAQ

Q1: Which systems does the 879194A02 Gimbal Bearing Perma-Lube fit?

It fits MerCruiser MC-1, R, MR, select Alpha and Bravo One sterndrives, plus all OMC Cobra drives.

Q2: How is this different from aftermarket bearings?

OEM bearings have tighter tolerances, better internal materials, and more reliable alignment.

Q3: How do I confirm it’s correct for my setup?

Match your sterndrive model and year range with the compatibility list in your service manual.

Q4: Can this be used in both fresh and salt water?

Yes—just maintain proper lubrication and follow normal service intervals.

Q5: Is installation approachable for a hands-on boater?

Many experienced DIY boaters handle it, but perfect alignment is crucial, so a shop can be helpful.