Drive storage Up or down?

[kdmiller8251]

Hey guys finally got the boat winterized for the season.<br /><br />One question. does it matter how you store your drive? Up in the trailer position, or Full trim down? I have Locks on the trim rams so there is not any pressure on the Trim system. <br /><br />Just curious.<br /><br />T

 

[tylerin]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

I store mine drive down to keep from distorting the bellows.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

hello<br /> the hydraulics could care less. but the bellows on the otherhand do. that and with the trim caps tilted skyward the rams are unprotected and the caps can fill with water and freeze pusing the wiper out of place. my vote goes for drive down.<br /> good luck and keep posting

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

I store mine in the basement.....

 

[flashback]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

I store mine down, when you lower it you will see some water drain out of it..plus like rodbolt says, it is much easier on the bellows and rams.....

 

[kdmiller8251]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

ok fellas thanks for the input

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

I am with Tony,I remove my drives and store them inside.This allows me to grease the ujoints and inspect the bellows and grease the shift arm.Charlie

 

[MFG197]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

merc says down for two reasons.<br /><br />bellows may develop a "set" or stretch weakening them.<br /><br />a leaky driveshaft seal may allow gear lube to seep into bellows area lessening the oil in the gearcase when you start up next season possibly trashing the drive.

 

[BRIAN03]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

Down

 

[boatingfool]

Re: Drive storage Up or down?

I store down as well.<br /><br />Bellows is the argument that got me to start storing it that way.