4.3 LX Mercruiser with blown bellows

[dan85]

I am looking at possibly buying a 1997 19 ft wellcraft. The owner says the engine has very little time on it, but boat sat for several years in storage. Shortly thereafter a bellows blew out probally due to overheating, causing an engine issue that has not been diagnosed. He is asking 2000. What do you guys think about that price? Do you guys have any idea what could cause the bellows to blow?

 

[Limited-Time]

Re: 4.3 LX Mercruiser with blown bellows

The "bellows" is a convoluted tube type of seal. They degrade, dry rot and crack. They do not "blow". They seal out the sea water while allowing for the movement of the out drive. The only effect the would have on the engine is if it failed and the boat took on enough water to compromise it. I'd suggest you find a marine surveyor and have the boat evaluated.

 

[danond]

Re: 4.3 LX Mercruiser with blown bellows

I think you mean one of the exhaust sleeves? The bellows exist around the driveshaft and seal the outdrive to the transom.

I wouldn't buy it. The drive and engine could both be trashed, transom could be rotten, wiring shot, etc etc. That repair could cost you close to $10G's if you have to hire it out.

 

[180shabah]

Re: 4.3 LX Mercruiser with blown bellows

We need to know exactly what is meant by "bellows blew out" and what is the undiagnosed engine problem?

My first thought - dead water pump caused overheat, that also burned through one of the bellows. BUT this is just a guess?

At $2k, it might still be worth it, but there is just not enough information to make that determination yet.

Does it include a trailer? painted or galvanized?