Question on Rubber Exhaust Tubes

[DJD]

I have a 1983 Mercruiser 260 I am replacing the water shutters.(3 inch) since I have to take both rubber tubes off each side and given the age of the boat ..should I be replacing those rubber tubes ? I don't see any damage or irregularities in the shape...except on the right side it appears the y pipe does not line up exactly perfect with the cast part above (working towards the riser) so the rubber tube connection is offset... not a straight shot connection to that next section above it ….
.I would imagine this is OK ? and the rubber is engineered to compensate for these alignment issues ?
Also I am being advised to remove the riser and then disconnect each section as I work toward the shutter

any advise/comment is appreciated

 

[alldodge]

If it looks good and remains pliable, put it back on

 

[Bondo]

.I would imagine this is OK ? and the rubber is engineered to compensate for these alignment issues ?

Ayuh,..... That happens, absolutely perfect alignment is rare,......

Inspect the boots for dry-rot, 'n cracks,..... If no problems found, reuse 'em,.......

If yer in freshwater, the risers will last about Forever,.....
If they've lived in brine, Yes, they need Inspectin',.......

 

[poconojoe]

I'm not sure what you mean by removing the riser and working toward the shutter. When I did my shutters (4.3L), I didnt need to remove the risers. If you do that, you're going to have to unecessarily deal with gasket work. Getting new gaskets, cleaning each surface, etc.
If my memory serves me right, I think I just removed the elbows. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[QBhoy]

It’s not unknown to be able to move the rubbers enough to get at shutters on some engines. You just need to make sure they are hot after running engie if possible. More pliable.

 

[wellcraft-classic210]

I have my 1983 Merc 260 rubber sections and elbow off without removing the style risers // Reassembling was a challenge ( possibly due to 50Deg temp that day ) but it is feasible.

-- I do believe their are a couple of configurations so sure if that holds true for all of them.

It is easier with riser removal -- but doing that will drive inspection of the mating surfaces ( possible resurfacing )and new gaskets --
If your riser have not been checked lately you may want to do that anyways as preventive maintenance. If those gaskets leak engine damage can occur as water will enter the cylinder through the exhaust valves and ca host of possible damages

I posted my recent riser work -- I will try to find the link.

 

[wellcraft-classic210]

You may find this post of help

https://forums.iboats.com/forum/eng...-and-shutter-questions-83-mercruiser-260-5-7l