Outdrive Winterization needed?

[Southeast Cruiser]

I know the how-to's for winterizing my I/O engine (closed cooling system). My question is, do I need to do anything to the Outdrive? See stats below...

1. Volvo Penta DP-X duo-prop.
2. Boat will be outside.
3. I'm on the border of North and South Carolina (8 miles from the ocean) so the average "low" temp during Jan-Feb winter nights is right around freezing (32F).

Thanks in advance,
Scott

 

[Don S]

Re: Outdrive Winterization needed?

Change the gear lube to make sure there is no water in it. Also check the bellows for water, you DO NOT want water setting in the bellows over the winter.
If you do find water, post back, you have work to do.

 

[Southeast Cruiser]

Re: Outdrive Winterization needed?

Please excuse my marine terminology ignorance...I am assuming you're referring to the exhaust bellows and not the u-joint bellows. If so, I have a through hull exhaust system. Would the exhaust bellows get any water in them when using a through hull system?

 

[tkrfxr]

Re: Outdrive Winterization needed?

Removed...my error.

I thought I had a link to the DP-X drive shop manual,but I don't....

 

[cr2k]

Re: Outdrive Winterization needed?

No the Drive Bellows, that is where you hope NOT to find water. If it there or any amount of drive oil you will need to fix before you store.

 

[Southeast Cruiser]

Re: Outdrive Winterization needed?

OK. I'll loosen the bands and peak under the boot to make sure it's dry and I will be draining the outdrive oil as soon as I get the "special" duo-prop removal tool needed for this thing...

Thanks,

Scott