
Parts Catalog for Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmissions
Rebuilt Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmissions
Plate Kit For Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmission
Gasket Kits For Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmission
The Twin Disc MG-5091 Marine Gear is one of the most trusted marine transmissions in commercial, industrial, and workboat applications. Whether you’re operating, maintaining, repairing, or rebuilding the MG-5091, having fast answers to common questions can save hours of downtime and prevent costly mistakes.
This comprehensive FAQ covers installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, rebuilds, technical specifications, fluid guidelines, and much more — designed for captains, technicians, mechanics, and fleet managers worldwide.
General Information
1. What type of marine transmission is the Twin Disc MG-5091?
It is a mechanical, hydraulically actuated marine gear, typically used in medium-duty to heavy-duty marine propulsion systems.
2. Is the MG-5091 reversible?
Yes. It features hydraulic forward and reverse clutches, allowing for full reversal of output shaft direction.
3. What vessels use the MG-5091?
It is commonly found in tugboats, shrimp trawlers, ferries, patrol boats, and commercial fishing vessels.
4. What is the typical horsepower rating for the MG-5091?
The MG-5091 can handle up to 660 HP (at 1800 RPM), depending on gear ratio and application.
5. How is the MG-5091 cooled?
Through an external oil-to-water or oil-to-air cooler, connected via oil ports on the housing.
Specifications
6. What gear ratios are available for the MG-5091?
Common ratios include 1.50:1, 1.75:1, 2.00:1, 2.47:1, 2.95:1, and 3.5:1, depending on the model configuration.
7. What is the input rotation direction?
The MG-5091 is designed for clockwise (right-hand) input rotation when viewed from the flywheel end.
8. What is the weight of the transmission?
The dry weight is approximately 925 lbs (420 kg), depending on configuration and ratio.
9. What is the maximum input speed?
The rated maximum input speed is 2100 RPM, although it may vary slightly by ratio.
10. Does the MG-5091 come with a PTO (Power Take-Off)?
Yes, some versions include an optional PTO (live or clutched) for driving hydraulic pumps or generators.
Oil & Lubrication
11. What type of oil does the MG-5091 use?
Use SAE 30 or SAE 40 non-detergent oil approved for use in marine transmissions.
12. Can I use automatic transmission fluid (ATF)?
No. ATF is not compatible with MG-5091 clutches and will cause slippage.
13. What is the oil capacity of the MG-5091?
It ranges from 2.75 to 3.5 gallons (10.5 to 13.2 liters) depending on the cooler and lines.
14. How often should I change the oil?
- Initial change: After 25 hours
- Regular change: Every 300–400 hours or annually
15. Should I use synthetic oil?
Synthetic oil may be used if it meets Twin Disc viscosity and friction specifications, but always consult with Diesel Pro Power for guidance.
Maintenance
16. What’s included in a typical maintenance kit?
Diesel Pro Power’s kit includes filters, gaskets, seals, and O-rings needed for routine servicing.
17. How often should I check the oil level?
Daily before startup and after extended operation.
18. When should the oil filter be changed?
Change it every oil change or at least every 300 hours.
19. How do I check shaft alignment?
Use a dial indicator or feeler gauge to ensure runout is <0.003″ TIR at the coupling.
20. What’s the best way to flush the transmission?
Drain completely, fill with flushing oil, run 10 minutes, then drain and refill with clean oil.
Installation
21. What is the correct alignment tolerance?
Shafts must be aligned within 0.002″–0.003″ total indicated runout.
22. What is soft foot and why does it matter?
Soft foot refers to uneven mounting pad contact, which causes housing distortion and internal misalignment. It must be corrected using shims.
23. What mounting hardware should I use?
Use Grade 8 bolts, lock washers, and thread locker on all mounts and flanges.
24. What is the torque spec for housing bolts?
3/8” bolts = 30–35 ft-lbs, 1/2” bolts = 75–85 ft-lbs
25. How do I torque the output flange?
Torque to 125–135 ft-lbs for 5/8″ bolts, and follow a star pattern.
Troubleshooting
26. Why does my MG-5091 slip in forward?
Likely causes: worn clutch plates, low oil pressure, or contaminated oil.
27. What causes delayed engagement?
Low hydraulic pressure, air in the system, or incorrect clutch clearance.
28. I hear whining or grinding—what’s the issue?
Possible bearing wear, gear backlash out of spec, or oil starvation.
29. Oil is leaking from the output seal—what do I do?
Inspect the seal lip, shaft surface, and replace the output seal if necessary.
30. Pressure is low on startup. Should I be concerned?
Yes. Pressure should build within 5 seconds. Check the pump, filter, and fluid level.
Rebuilds
31. When should I rebuild the MG-5091?
At 8,000–12,000 hours, or earlier if experiencing slippage, overheating, or abnormal noise.
32. What’s in a Diesel Pro Power rebuild kit?
Includes clutch plates, gaskets, seals, bearings, O-rings, and more — everything needed for a full rebuild.
33. Can I rebuild it myself?
Yes, if you have mechanical experience, correct tools, and follow OEM torque and clearance specs.
34. What tools do I need?
- Torque wrench
- Dial indicator
- Seal installers
- Pullers
- Feeler gauges
35. Do I need to reshim anything?
Yes — backlash and endplay may require shimming to OEM tolerances.
Technical Tolerances
36. What is the clutch clearance spec?
0.015″ to 0.030″ total clearance.
37. What’s acceptable backlash between gear teeth?
0.004″ to 0.010″, depending on the gear set.
38. What is acceptable input shaft runout?
No more than 0.002″–0.004″ total indicated runout.
39. What’s the output shaft endplay spec?
Typically 0.004″ to 0.008″.
40. How do I check backlash and endplay?
Use a dial indicator mounted to a magnetic base while rotating or shifting shafts.
Storage & Preservation
41. Can I store the MG-5091 without oil?
Only after applying rust inhibitors to internal components. Never store with used oil.
42. How do I protect it from corrosion?
- Drain oil
- Apply vapor-phase or contact rust inhibitors
- Seal breather and shaft ends
- Store in low-humidity environment
43. How often should I rotate the shaft during layup?
At least once per month to prevent clutch and bearing damage.
44. What should I do before startup after layup?
- Drain rust inhibitor oil
- Refill with clean oil
- Check all seals
- Perform oil pressure test
- Shift to forward/reverse at idle
45. Can I fog the gearbox with marine fogging oil?
Yes, but it must be flushed before return to service.
Parts & Sourcing
46. Where can I buy aftermarket parts for the MG-5091?
At Diesel Pro Power, offering fast shipping worldwide.
47. Are Diesel Pro’s rebuild kits compatible with OEM specs?
Yes — our parts meet or exceed OEM tolerances and durability.
48. How quickly can I get parts?
Most parts ship same day, globally.
49. Do I need my serial number to order?
Recommended but not always required. It helps match gear ratio, clutch configuration, and shaft design.
50. Does Diesel Pro offer tech support for installation?
Yes — visit dieselpro.com/help for expert assistance by phone, email, or chat.
Parts Catalog for Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmissions
Rebuilt Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmissions
Plate Kit For Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmission
Gasket Kits For Twin Disc MG5091 Marine Transmission