Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/19/2008

Question
I have old heavy Mk3 mercruiser outleg which needs fitting. However as the drive joints are universal they are a bitch to slide into the female drive and the rubber bellows though in good condition and only three years old are heavy and will not move ... how do we ease them or refit this leg... suggestions please Dave Uk

Answer
If the gimbal housing was not taken off of the bellows there is no need to remove as you have found they are stiff and a bear to work on.
If the bellows is very cold it will be quite a bit stiffer than normal. If you can work on it in a heated place.
You will need to make sure the gimbal bearing and the engine are in alignment. You may need to take the boat to a Mercruiser service shop and have them check the alignment. Then it is a matter of just putting the outdrive on.
As I just said about the bellows, no part of this is easy. You will probably need a partner. You will most likely have to turn the driveshaft slightly to align it with the engine splines. A good service manual will help also.
Make sure you use new gaskets and seals and check the bellows very carefully for any distortions, nicks or cuts.
Post back if I can help further.
Jeff