Replace Bellows Question

[cmyers_uk]

I have just removed my Volvo Penta SX-M drive the bellows seem OK but they are 4 years old now so think I might as well change them. Two questions 1) I think I need to remove the Transom Shield assembly as well to get to the bellows is this correct?<br /><br />2) When I remove the fluid lines to the trim cylinders will all the fluid leak out?<br /><br />Thanks<br />Chris

 

[Don S]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

To pull the transom shield you have to remove the engine, but you do not have to pull the transom shield just to change bellows. <br />Remove the clamp and snap ring from the exhaust bellows and remove it, then disconnect the ujoint bellows from the pivot housing and remove the clamp and bellows from the transom shield. Then pull it out the bottom. You may have to remove the plastic nut for the water hose to make room.<br /><br />There is absolutley no reason to remove the trim cylinder lines.<br /><br />My suggestion is for you to get a service manual before you take too many things apart.

 

[cmyers_uk]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Thanks Don for the quick response. I have got the Official Volvo Penta Workshop Manual for the sterndrive but obviously not the eyes to read it properly!<br /><br />I have just had another look after reading your response, after I release the front of the bellows do I turn the remaining drive unit to one side and undo the jubilee clips and wiggle them out through the side /bottom? <br /><br />Thank you for you assistance<br /><br />Chris

 

[cmyers_uk]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Don, I have just re-read the manual, what I thought I needed to remove was the pivot housing, not the transom shield assembly.<br /><br />Regards<br />Chris

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

hello<br /> do what DonS says<br /> remove the drive. remove the tru-arc ring from the exhaust. the exhaust and the aft end of the ujoint bellows will fold inward and clear the gimbal. remove the transome side of the exhaust bellows for clearence. then remove the clamp on the transome side of the ujoint bellows.<br /> when reinstalling pay attention to properly orient the ujoint bellows. and be carefull trying to get the new bellows seated in the groove on the gimbal housing. DO NOT use screw drivers or other sharp instruments.

 

[cmyers_uk]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Thanks Rodbolt & Don, I am waiting until saturday so I can do it in day light. Ill let you know how it went. <br /><br />Thanks again<br /><br />Chris

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

what a wuss here in the states we can do it with a bic lighter and duct tape <br /> good luck and let us know how it works. Light is way overated

 

[cmyers_uk]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Thank you guys, braved the wind , rain and removed the bellows with no problems at all and without dismantling the whole boat. <br /><br />Thanks again<br /><br />Chris

 

[Don S]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Sounds like you found out that the worry was worse than the actual job.

 

[SteveRay]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Chris....I am thinking of doing the same job on my boat. What would you rate your handiness at? Are you experienced? I do not want to open a can of worms for myself. Did you need special tools *** indicated in the manual?<br />Also, is this job more difficult on a Mercruiser which I have?<br />

 

[cmyers_uk]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

Steve, In all honesty it was really easy once the guys talked me through it. The only tools that I needed were circlip pliers to remove the exhaust circlip a 5/8 universal socket to remove the drive nuts and a flat blade screwdriver. I had brought the Volvo Penta manual which shows any special tools etc but also things like use this sealant, put locktight on these nuts. In respect of my handiness I am very keen but not very experienced/good but always willing to have a go, I can read and if I get stuck just ask. Have a go you wont regret it. The main thing I find difficult is where it says check the gimbal bearing but not how thats done which is where this board comes into its own. Having done it once Ive gained a much better understanding of how it all works and feel I can do a good job each season.<br /><br />Sorry I dont know whether its harder on a merc, I suspect not but Im sure somebody will let you know.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Replace Bellows Question

sea ray steave<br /> post a new topic and list what outdrive and year and seriel number if avalible