transplate??? or gimbal

Question
Hi, I'm looking at buying a used boat on ebay.  The seller has told me that it is leaking from a part called the "transplate" I am thinking that this is actually the Gimbal housing.  My question is how hard is it to replace.  I dont know much about the outdrive.  I do know it is a 1986 mercruiser 470.  Not sure if its an alpha drive, bravo etc...  Any info you could provide would greatly help.

thanks

Answer
Hi Bob...Thank you for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

First of all, I presume the craft is 21 yrs. old, as is the engine. Secondly, if the hull is constructed of fibreglass, avoid purchase...too many unknown and likely problems which are uneconomical to repair. Thridly, how many hours are on the engine, prior to or after rebuild?

Save yourself a lot of time, trouble & inconvenience, and hire a qualifed and reliable marine surveyor to inspect and evaluate the next selection. It's definitely worth while and protects you, the purchaser, from unexpected costs and headaches.

Safe Boating
Ron