Bellows Replacement

[Knot Waiting]

Is there a recommended replacement interval for sterndrive bellows? My boat does not leak and from the little I can see the bellows are in ok condition. I had them replaced about 3 seasons ago. I just want to avoid any issues that can be prevented. Also, how difficult are they to change (if I need to)? I do most of my own work but never done this job before. Thanks.

1988 Mercury Alpha 1(r)

 

[RepoMan207]

Re: Bellows Replacement

Transom service is recommended every 2 years in fresh water, regardless of usage.

 

[Spinnaker]

Re: Bellows Replacement

Is there a recommended replacement interval for sterndrive bellows? My boat does not leak and from the little I can see the bellows are in ok condition. I had them replaced about 3 seasons ago. I just want to avoid any issues that can be prevented. Also, how difficult are they to change (if I need to)? I do most of my own work but never done this job before. Thanks.

1988 Mercury Alpha 1(r)

First time replacing it you might swear at it a few times. If you are talking the exhaust bellows you'll need a tool to install. Absolutely impossible to install without it unless you are a magician. Replace when signs of wear or cracks. I've seen them last for many years and some a couple years. Also check the cable boot on a regular basis. A customer of mine sunk his boat with this boot ripped.
I will also add that he became a customer after he sunk the boat.

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Bellows Replacement

Mercruiser says every 5 years for the bellows...unless you have an issue.

If this were mine, I would just keep an eye on them and pull the drive for water intrusion inspection at the end of the season.

Happy boating!

 

[RepoMan207]

Re: Bellows Replacement

Your right, 5 in Fresh and 3 in salt water right.?.?

 

[Don S]

Re: Bellows Replacement

5 years, even in salt water, If you are using OEM bellows.
Most aftemarket bellows will last 2-3 years.
Mallory, 1 week if you are real lucky.

 

[Spinnaker]

Re: Bellows Replacement

5 years, even in salt water, If you are using OEM bellows.
Most aftemarket bellows will last 2-3 years.
Mallory, 1 week if you are real lucky.

Thanks for that Don. It's something I should know. Mallory is really that bad? My wholesaler started bringing in Mallory products and haven't used any of those products. Mostly OEM and Sierra.

 

[Don S]

Re: Bellows Replacement

I just gave you my opinion from using them on customers boats.
I no longer use anything but OEM for bellows, shift cables, gaskets, and any other rubber parts.

 

[Knot Waiting]

Re: Bellows Replacement

Thanks guys. I'll be pulling the drive off to check the alignment in a few weeks so I'll get a better scope on their condition then. If I was waaaay out of the service peirod I was gonna order replacement bellows in advance.

P.S. I actually have the special bellows installer tool...... just dont hacve the clue how to use it, lol.

 

[skargo]

Re: Bellows Replacement

You can go with an exhaust tube instead of the exhaust bellows and no tool needed.