Cobra transom service kit installation

[cobra 3.0]

Although I have a Clymer manual, I'm still left with a few questions on the kit's installation on my OMC Cobra 3.0:<br /><br />1. The exhaust bellows supplied has slits all along one side (my old one doesn't). I believe I install this slits side down? I've read on past threads here that it is done to let the water out...especially at idle. Somebody went to the trouble of cutting these slits. What are the benefits of the slits...if any?<br /><br />2. The Cobra u-joint bellow has a small metal clip on the end that fits on the transon mount(that's not on my original bellow). What's it for? Does it have to be removed/installed in a certain way?<br /><br />4. a. Are there any tricks to removing a gimbal bearing without the gimbal bearing removal tool? Can I make a tool? ...or I was thinking of removing the transom mount and then tapping/pushing it out from the back. If I do this do I have to realign the engine?<br /><br />b. How can I tell if my gimbal bearing needs to be changed? I can't feel any play in mine.<br /><br />3. OMC Gasket Sealing compound is recommended for the gasket installation. Can I use an automotive gasket sealing compound?<br /><br />4. Why do they specify spline grease for the splines. What so special about this grease?<br /><br />5. My water inlet hose looks fine. Should I change it too anyways? Can I use an automotive radiator type hose?<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Cobra transom service kit installation

hello<br /> 1,the slits keep water from being traped in the drive exhaust area.<br /> 2 the clip electrically bonds the clamp to the transome to help keep corrosion down<br /> 3 no<br /> 4a slide hammer and a 2 jaw puller<br /> 4b cause spline grease works and the designers brotherinlaw sells it<br /> 5 no

 

[cobra 3.0]

Re: Cobra transom service kit installation

Thanks for the replies rodbolt! What about the gimbal bearing. How do I know if its worn? Does it make a noise or is it loose like on a car wheel bearing?<br /><br />...just curious. Why wouldn't a silicone based gasket maker by a company like Permatex not work for the main gasket?

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Cobra transom service kit installation

hello<br /> stick your skinners into the bearing and turn it. if its rough feeling replace it if not check engine alignment and run it.<br /> the acedic acid in silly cone hasa a tendancy to create corroision on aluminium. why not just use what the factory reccomends? perfect seal and gasket sealer are both the same and come in small cans. one is from merc the other from Bombardier.<br /> good luck and keep posting

 

[cobra 3.0]

Re: Cobra transom service kit installation

I was real worried about putting my drive back on as the first time I tried to, it didn't want to go back on. I figured the bellows was too old hard and tight. So I purchased the transom kit and installed both bellows and the kit this afternoon. The drive just slipped in and on!<br /><br />(I followed you advice rodbolt for the OMC sealing compound. It isn't anything like "silly cone".) <br /><br />In any case, everything went like a charm! Even got to change my thermostat. I'm ready to get back on the water...YAHOOOOOOO!