Tool to fit Helmut Nut

[VisionIsle]

Im getting ready to haul my boat to service the Outdrive (And add anti fouling to it) . Its a 280 Volvo. Does anyone know what special tools are needed. Allen wrenchs metric? How about size for helmut nut? Also does this outdrive have a dipstick, if not how much oil is needed of the 30# (2.5qts?). Any extra advice on service would be appreciated. Its 2years in brackish water this month.

What about bellows, Ive run the boat 8 times in 12 months, short trips.

Thank you

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Tool to fit Helmut Nut

SAE Allen wrenches, (3/8 on the helmet I think). Pull the back cover off where it says 280...dipstick right there, and the fill plug. Yep, do the bellows. Side to side to get at the steering bolts. 4 bolts to pop the upper gear case off, then do the bellow. Watch for shims, new rubber o-ring. About 2.8 quarts, but it varies, and yep, straight 30w. new gasket on the drain plug to.
Now go get a manual, and bone up on swear words!

 

[stevieray]

Re: Tool to fit Helmut Nut

Here's a link for your outdrive paint. Remember to use zinc chromate primer on any bare aluminum.

http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cg..._id=217338&list_time=1160583207&view_id=49204

 

[VisionIsle]

Re: Tool to fit Helmut Nut

How much trouble to do the bellows, no need to pull the complete Outdrive? Are there bellow kits I can purchse that will contain all 3 (there are 3 right? And why change them if they still feel good and soft, do Barnicles cut them even without regular wear?

 

[Don S]

Re: Tool to fit Helmut Nut

There are only 2 bellows on a 280, if the exhaust looks ok, leave it. The ujoint bellows on the other hand should be replace everyother year. Reason: Since you are in salt water, if it goes bad it will cost you the ujoints, you will get water in the drive and the input shaft seal and seal ring will have to be replaced. It usually cause water to get into the intermediate bearing in the engine bellhousing, that requires an engine pull to fix.
Best thing to do is pull the upper gear box an replace the bellows before they get damaged. They are also thin rubber and get holes very easily.