Mercury Mariner 200, 225 Optimax Outboards Service Manual, 90-855348, Page 426Get this manual
DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY -INSPECTION
1Clean all parts with suitable solvent and dry the parts using compressed airDO NOT spin the bearings2The condition of the drive shaft bearing cup is an indication of the condition of the tapered roller bearing on the drive shaftReplace the bearing and bearing cup if the cup is pitted, grooved, scored, worn unevenly, discolored from overheating, or has embedded particles3Inspect the bearing surface on the drive shaft where the needles of the lower pinion bearing rollReplace the drive shaft if it is pitted, grooved, scored, worn unevenly, discolored form overheating, or has embedded particles4Inspect the splines at both ends of the drive shaft for worn or twisted conditionReplace the drive shaft if either condition exists5Inspect the gear for pitting, chipped or broken teeth, hairline fractures, and excessive or uneven wearReplace the pinion gear and the forward gear if any defects are found