Anyone have link for free pdf download alpha 1 gen 2 bellows replacement ?

JASinIL2006

Vice Admiral
Joined
Feb 10, 2012
Messages
5,673
I never found any start-to-finish guide for bellows replacement. The manual (http://boatinfo.no/lib/mercruiser/manuals/mercruiser14.html#/0) has pretty good instructions in section 4A. It can get a bit confusing, but the directions are generally correct and easy to follow.

Assuming you're getting ready to embark on this task, I suggest reading a bunch of topics here on bellows replacement before you start. You can pick up a lot of tips that will save you tons of time and aggravation. For example, if you replace the lower shift cable as you're doing the bellows, be sure to leave a tracer wire in there to help you find correct path for the new shift cable. The manual doesn't suggest that step, and it is REALLY difficult to get the shift cable installed correctly without a tracer.

Good luck!
 

wrvond

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Mar 2, 2010
Messages
597
I also need to replace the shifter cable bellows on my boat. I plan to replace all three bellows while I am in there. Is there a reason I should replace the lower shift cable?
 

skijunk

Seaman
Joined
Jul 18, 2016
Messages
55
I also need to replace the shifter cable bellows on my boat. I plan to replace all three bellows while I am in there. Is there a reason I should replace the lower shift cable?


I was told that replacing the cable is a maintenance measure and since the thing will be taken apart, may as well replace it. I went ahead and got one with the kit I ordered.
 

JASinIL2006

Vice Admiral
Joined
Feb 10, 2012
Messages
5,673
I've seen some say to leave it if it's not bad, others say that it will wear out eventually, so might as well change it while the rear end is torn apart. I decided to change it as long as I had everything torn apart. I don't want to have to mess with that stuff again any sooner than I have to!
 

skijunk

Seaman
Joined
Jul 18, 2016
Messages
55


I realize this is for an alpha one and I have the gen 2. I have noticed in the kits that are available and even the one I bought, that the gen 1 come with sealants but the gen 2's do not. I have asked this question before and wonder why this is. Do you know ? It would stand to reason that the same junctions on either unit would require the same sealants and lubricants seeing how they perform the same functions. right?

Thanks !
 
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