Another Water in the Boat issue

[Just Learning]

Have 1997 Sea Ray 190, getting water in bilge. After about 1 1/2 - 2 hrs can run bilge pump and get probably get couple gallons. No obvious cracks in bellows, just from looking. Put some sealant around the plug flange, but didn't change.<br />I know some will say ANY water is too much, but Is this enough water to really worry about? Wait and see if gets worse?<br />What should I do? Have drive pulled?<br />Thanks again.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Another Water in the Boat issue

look for the simple stuff first like when your boat rocks,does the bilge pump outlet go under water for a moment.If you hose is not looped you can take in some water from there.Look for any water that may be dripping from hoses or manifolds.If no luck,check at night with a flashlight,the light from the flashlight will isolate the area you are looking in.Raise and lower the outdrive a little at a time and check with flashlight with motor running and without.If you suspect a bellows,fix it right away.A small crack which may only leak when turning the o/d to port or stbd could enlarge any time and sink you.The water will also ruin your gimball bearing.Dont wait .Find it and fix it. Charlie

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Another Water in the Boat issue

finding a leak is a pain in the a s s. patience and a flashlight is the best method. i had a leak all last year that i could not find. this year it is gone. all i can figure is my drain plug wasn't tight enough.

 

[Just Learning]

Re: Another Water in the Boat issue

Found my leak---<br />while on the trailer, raised the bow and put water in the compartment, found a 1/2 inch slit in the small shift cable bellows-- water streaming out, but the other bellows stayed dry.<br />Now the question is-<br />1. does the outdrive have to be pulled?<br />2. How dangerous is it to use one more time before<br />putting in the shop?

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Another Water in the Boat issue

I would not use it before replacing the bellows.You will have to pull the drive and you might as well replace the cable and the other bellows since they cant be far off from the same thing happening.Now if you are daring(and I assume you are since you asked if you can use it once more before repair) you can cover the entire shift boot with silicone sealant.Dont push any through the tear,but make sure you put it all over so it makes a full continuous connection when it dries,this way it wont fall off.This should get you another day out before repair.Good luck!!! Charlie

 

[Just Learning]

Re: Another Water in the Boat issue

Thanks Charlie, I'll probably do that. I just don't think its a "sinkable" situation. If the hole bellow came off, theres only a 1/4 in space around the cable that water can come in. I'll be in a smallish lake so I don't doubt I can make it back to dock.