How often should Mercruiser bellows be replaced?
every two years
Inspect the bellows annually and replace it every two years.
How much does it cost to replace the bellows in a boat?
You can get a shift cable bellows for under $50. The other two will run around $100. You will need adhesive and lubricants specific to the make and model of your boat. Ironically, the time it takes to replace them is less than 30 minutes—after you’ve spent a few hours on the drive.
How do I know if my bellows are leaking?
If it is leaking badly, you’ll hear a roaring sound coming from the back of the boat. That’s a sure sign. It’s basically water getting into the bearing grease and rusting the bearing. The bellows itself is the beefy rubber boot that goes from the transom assembly to the upper drive housing.
How do I check my bellows?
Tips for checking the condition of your bellows Poke around on them look for soft spots, cracks or tears. Look for any signs of moisture on the bottom of the u-joint bellow. With the drive full trimmed up turn hard to the left. This will give you excellent access to inspect the shift bellow.
When should I replace my boat bellows?
If your boat overheats, it means that there is a problem with the exhaust bellow. It can be extremely important to notice a problem with your bellows since you might need to replace the whole boat if the problem gets worse.
How long do bellows last?
Checking your bellows should be done annually and replaced when necessary. Please keep in mind that bellows are rubber and deteriorate over time. We have found that bellows life expectancy is about 6 years.
Do you need exhaust bellows?
Flex bellows are an essential part of any exhaust system regardless of its application. They increase longevity, can improve performance & allow for a higher quality end product meaning you must select the correct component for your needs.
How do you use the Mercruiser bellows expander tool?
This Tools allows you to install the bellow in minutes. Simply install the bellow on the gimble housing then stretch the bellow though the exhaust hole in the bell housing and tighten the hose clamp. Note: Sterndrive must be removed in order to use this tool.
How do you check a boat bellows?
Look for any signs of moisture on the bottom of the u-joint bellow. With the drive full trimmed up turn hard to the left. This will give you excellent access to inspect the shift bellow. Pull the outdrive to check the alignment and check for any signs of moisture in the bellows and shift cavity.
Why do boats get water in the bilge?
Water that does not drain off the side of the deck or through a hole in the hull, typically via a scupper, drains down into the ship into the bilge. This water may be from rough seas, rain, leaks in the hull or stuffing box, or other interior spillage.
How do you know if your boat bellows are bad?
There is a very easy way to figure out if there is something that is wrong with your bellows – if there is water in your cabin, then there is likely a crack somewhere in your boat (or perhaps a loose gasket or clamp). If there is a loud noise while driving, that might also be a sign of trouble.