OMC U-Joint Bellows Replacement Details

[helmboy]

Folks, I need to replace the u-joint bellows on my 1986 OMC Cobra. I've
seen some posts regarding that, but have some detailed questions. When
putting the new u-joint bellows in: is there any special tool needed to get
the bellows onto the gimbal? Any special sealant/adhesive used to afix the
bellows to the groove? And a related question: since I have to work on the
drive, I'd like to fix the problem of the exhaust bellows continually popping
out of the drive-side groove. Is there a keeper-ring for that? I see a kind of
e-ring shown in exploded views of the drive, but no part number or other
description. Thanks in advance.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: OMC U-Joint Bellows Replacement Details

no special tools required, just you fingers. the exhaust bellow does have a spring loaded retainer ring just like the u-joint bellow, I brushed the groove with aviation sealant when I did mine, not sure if it was correct but 2 years down and no leaks. If the grooves are pitted up a more aggresive adhesive sealant would be my choice, theres a bunch of stuff out there will do the job.

 

[helmboy]

Re: OMC U-Joint Bellows Replacement Details

Thanks for the information. Any ideas on where I could purchase the retaining rings? The
parts lists and/or bellows kits I see for sale do not mention the retaining rings. I only see
it in exploded views of the drive.

 

[cr2k]

Re: OMC U-Joint Bellows Replacement Details

But do pay attention to where the the hose clamp screw goes as it can be critical in some cases to be sure they don't rub on anything and wear a hole in it, like the water hose.