In Mercury Marine’s Bravo series sterndrive systems—spanning Bravo 1, 2, and 3 models from 1988 to present—the gimbal ring plays a structurally vital role. It connects the transom assembly to the sterndrive, supporting steering articulation and vertical trim movement.
OEM gimbal rings, typically made from cast aluminum, are known to degrade over time due to corrosion, galvanic interaction, and cyclical mechanical stress. These failures are particularly common in high-performance and saltwater marine applications, where environmental and mechanical conditions are severe.
The Signature Gimbal Ring from Buckshot Racing #77 addresses these vulnerabilities with a direct-replacement upgrade precision-machined from 304 stainless steel.
Designated UNS S30400, 304 stainless is a versatile, corrosion-resistant alloy used widely across marine, industrial, and structural applications.
While not as hardenable as precipitation-hardened stainless steels, 304 provides a durable, long-lasting solution that significantly outperforms aluminum in both structural integrity and environmental resilience.
Compared to cast aluminum, 304 stainless steel offers markedly improved structural performance. Cast aluminum, while lightweight and easy to machine, has relatively low tensile strength and is vulnerable to both galvanic and pitting corrosion.
Under constant load and exposure to seawater, these weaknesses often result in material fatigue, steering misalignment, and even transom leaks. In contrast, 304 stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, improved tensile strength, and resistance to mechanical deformation—making it a more robust material for long-term marine use.
The Signature Gimbal Ring from Buckshot Racing #77 is engineered as a direct replacement for Mercury Marine part numbers 822374, 822374A4, 822374A14, and 8M0062440.
It is fully compatible with Bravo 1, 2, and 3 sterndrives from 1988 onward and integrates seamlessly with standard trim senders and steering hardware. No machining, drilling, or modifications are required for standard installations.
Some advanced users have successfully modified the part to accommodate Bravo XR sending units by tapping additional mounting holes—though this is optional and user-specific.
Each unit is CNC-machined and highly polished, not only to enhance surface quality and corrosion resistance but also to reduce the risk of buildup at critical contact points. This finish, combined with the robust material properties of 304 stainless steel, ensures long-lasting performance under real-world marine conditions.
The Signature Gimbal Ring from Buckshot Racing #77 is more than a replacement—it's a field-tested, professional-grade solution to one of the most common failure points in Mercury Bravo sterndrive systems.
Developed with hands-on racing and engineering experience behind it, this component reflects Buckshot Racing's commitment to durability, precision, and real-world reliability.
When comparing replacement options for the Mercury Bravo gimbal ring, the Signature Gimbal Ring from Buckshot Racing #77 offers a significant performance and cost advantage. The OEM Mercury gimbal ring (part number 822374A14), constructed from cast aluminum, carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,922.79.
In contrast, the Signature Gimbal Ring, precision-machined from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel, is priced right, delivering a premium, real-world proven upgrade to a commonly failing OEM part.
Allow 2-weeks for build and delivery! This will ship separately from any combined order.
Contact Mike Hill at +1-714-697-1716 or email mike@buckshotracing77.com for technical support.