Mercury – Gimbal Bearing | Alpha One Gen II & Bravo Series | Precision Steel Construction | 879194A01

Overview

There is a certain confidence that comes from a sterndrive that feels tight, clean, and responsive every time you throttle up. When your gimbal bearing is healthy, the whole boat seems to move as one—steady through chop, smooth in the turns, and quiet when shifting into gear. But when that bearing begins to wear, you feel it long before you see it: a faint vibration, a hum that should not be there, or a pull that just feels “off.” That is why boaters who’ve spent years on the water trust genuine Mercury Marine parts to keep everything aligned and running true. The Mercury Marine part number 879194A01 Gimbal Bearing is one of those understated but absolutely essential components that keeps your connection to the water feeling solid and predictable.

Key Features

• Replacement gimbal bearing engineered for select MerCruiser Alpha and Bravo sterndrives
• Precision machined to tight tolerances for smooth, long-lasting performance
• Designed to handle high rotational loads and varying alignment angles
• Helps maintain proper driveline alignment for reduced vibration and noise
• Manufactured to Mercury Marine’s original equipment specifications

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits MerCruiser Alpha One Gen II drives (1998 and newer)
• Compatible with MerCruiser Bravo and Vazer transom assemblies (1996 and newer)
• Designed for gasoline sterndrive-powered boats
• Commonly used on bowriders, sport boats, family cruisers, and small offshore fishing boats
• Ideal for boats that see frequent shifting, towing, or variable speed operation

Performance & Practical Benefits

A good gimbal bearing is one of those parts that quietly does its job—until it does not. When you install a proper Mercury Marine bearing, you can feel the difference in the way the drive settles into gear. The vibration you may have gotten used to is suddenly gone. The steering feels a touch lighter. The whole boat responds with a tighter, more confident attitude.

This bearing is built for the real conditions boaters face: tight marina maneuvering, long open-water runs, heavy summer loads, and everything in between. Its precision construction helps keep the driveline properly aligned, reducing wear on your U-joint, gimbal housing, and coupler. That translates to fewer surprises, fewer costly repairs, and more time on the water enjoying the ride.

Installation is straightforward when you follow the service manual, and using the lubricants Mercury specifies ensures the bearing remains quiet, protected, and long-lived. Once installed, it is the kind of part you forget about—because it just works.

Why Buy OEM

Gimbal bearings are not a part to gamble with.

• Mercury Marine OEM bearings are built for exact fits and exact loads
• Aftermarket options often lack proper tolerances, resulting in noise or premature wear
• OEM ensures correct sealing surfaces, smooth rotation, and proper alignment
• Better long-term reliability saves money on future driveline repairs
• Designed to match your drive’s engineering, not approximate it

When the connection between your engine and drive matters this much, sticking with Mercury’s own components just makes sense.

FAQ

Q1: Which systems does the 879194A01 Gimbal Bearing fit?

It fits MerCruiser Alpha One Gen II, Bravo series, and Vazer transom assemblies within the listed year ranges.

Q2: What makes this gimbal bearing better than aftermarket versions?

OEM bearings match Mercury’s tolerance requirements, rotational load specifications, and material standards.

Q3: How can I confirm this is the correct replacement?

Check your transom assembly or sterndrive model number—if it’s Alpha One Gen II (1998+) or Bravo/Vazer (1996+), this is the correct part.

Q4: Is it suitable for both saltwater and freshwater?

Yes, as long as your drive model is compatible and properly maintained.

Q5: Is installation manageable for most hands-on boat owners?

Many experienced boaters can install it with the right tools, though a shop can ensure perfect alignment.