why is there oil in my bellows but pressure test holds 15psi overnight

2

2009 stingray

Cadet
Joined
Aug 29, 2024
Messages
14
i pulled the drive on my boat and there is oil in the bellows, lots of it. i drained and pressure tested the drive and find no leaks. could the drive be overheating and pushing the oil out of the input shaft seal? bravo3 drive,
 
alldodge

alldodge

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Mar 8, 2009
Messages
43,887
Try putting 5 to 7 psi in and rotate the drive shaft. Also try to move it up/down/side to side to see if you loose pressure.

With a lip seal, the more pressure is applied the tighter the seal is forced against the shaft

If all that works without leaks, try a vacuum at 3-5 inHg
 
P

Pmt133

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jan 6, 2022
Messages
1,501
I've seen cheap grease look like lube in the bellows too. Flung and burned down from the gimbal and u-joints.

I agree with the movement and vacuum tests though. That usually will show a weak/worn seal. You losing lube in the reservoir?
 
C

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,672
Look at the sealing surface of the yoke. If there is a groove, the seal will leak. Replacement will be in order.
 
Lou C

Lou C

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Nov 10, 2002
Messages
13,968
Smell what you found there. Because if you have a grease-able gimble bearing sometimes the grease will separate out in a runny discharge. If it doesn't smell like gear oil it could just be that.
 
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