Another Bellows Question

[lojack]

I have an 87 Century with a Mercruiser I/O. When I made the deal 2 years ago, the owner had the shift cable, shift cable bellows and drive shaft bellows replaced at a cost of $650. However, he did not replace the water intake hose or the exhaust bellows. Last fall when I had the boat winterized I inquired about replacing the exhaust bellows and the intake hose and the mechanic said in doing so, he would also have to replace all of the other bellows as they were glued on. In searching the forum, it does not sound like the exhaust bellows is critical and mine is not currently leaking. What about the intake hose? The outer covering is cracked, but it does not leak. The mechanic claimed my boat would sink if either the exhaust bellows or intake hose broke. I don't believe that is the case for the exhaust bellows. Is that the case for the intake hose? Finally, can the intake hose replaced without removing the entire stern drive? If so is it a tough job for one who is mechanically inclined?

thanks!

 

[ziggy]

Re: Another Bellows Question

you seem to have a few questions.

Last fall when I had the boat winterized I inquired about replacing the exhaust bellows and the intake hose and the mechanic said in doing so, he would also have to replace all of the other bellows as they were glued on.

i don't think so. assuming your talking about the exhaust bellows. that one can be replaced by it self. it's also the least critical of the three bellows.

What about the intake hose? The outer covering is cracked,

yep, that one should be replaced..

The mechanic claimed my boat would sink if either the exhaust bellows or intake hose broke.

i don't think so on either count. the exhust is under water up to the water line. the water hose has water flowing through it up to the engine.

Finally, can the intake hose replaced without removing the entire stern drive?

not normally. you have to remove the drive + the bellhousing to go get that hose...

If so is it a tough job for one who is mechanically inclined?

it can be done. but you'll likely need a first aid kit... pretty small area to work in. but it certainly can be done. as everyone with a sterndrive has to contend with R&Ring these parts..

 

[meesh]

Re: Another Bellows Question

If the drive bellows or shift bellows were ripped, yes you could sink. If your mechanic is sayng you will sink because of the exhaust bellows being ripped, and the intake hose cracked, then it's time for a new mechanic. Those should both be fixed, especially the hose but sink you will not.