How often should you replace the drive bellows?
Do it again next year. Inspect the bellows annually and replace it every two years. Many, myself included, feel that if the drive is removed for inspection, you may as well just replace the bellows while you’re at it. It’s cheap insurance. Some drives, like Volvo Penta’s OceanX, have a sensor in the bellows to alert you to the presence of water.
When do you need to replace exhaust bellows?
-The exhaust bellows (if equipped) and water intake hose, which need to be replaced if there are any signs of deterioration. -The propeller (s), which should be removed, cleaned and sent out for reconditioning if nicked or bent, and the prop shaft, which should be greased. Also change gear lube. Want more like this?
Why do you need bellows on a stern drive?
Many stern-drives have flexible gaskets, called “bellows,” that seal the water out where the universal joint, shift cable and exhaust run between boat and drive. Their flexibility allows the drive to trim and turn while under way, but they can dry out and crack due to heat, harsh weather or age.
What kind of pressure does a bellows seal need?
Bellows seals can be used for pressures over 600 barg at ambient temperatures and for temperatures up to 980 °C. As with other metal components, bellows are subject to pressure/temperature ratings, see Chapter 13. Due to the thin metal sections used, high tensile stresses are generated in the bellows which may be prone to failure by fatigue.
How long does it take to replace bellows on boat?
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. Replacement of these parts is similar.
-The exhaust bellows (if equipped) and water intake hose, which need to be replaced if there are any signs of deterioration. -The propeller (s), which should be removed, cleaned and sent out for reconditioning if nicked or bent, and the prop shaft, which should be greased. Also change gear lube. Want more like this?
How often should I replace my stern drive bellows?
Inspect the bellows annually and replace it every two years. Many, myself included, feel that if the drive is removed for inspection, you may as well just replace the bellows while you’re at it. It’s cheap insurance. Some drives, like Volvo Penta’s OceanX, have a sensor in the bellows to alert you to the presence of water. And don’t forget…
Many stern-drives have flexible gaskets, called “bellows,” that seal the water out where the universal joint, shift cable and exhaust run between boat and drive. Their flexibility allows the drive to trim and turn while under way, but they can dry out and crack due to heat, harsh weather or age.