Expert: Everett Peacock - 10/4/2011

Question
My 1996 26 foot Searay BR has a 300 HP Mercruiser I/O. The marina servicing the boat has "recommended the bellows be replaced, if it is not done the bellows will begin to crack and blister". Estimated cost $1700-$1800. Is that realistic???

Answer
No that is a little out there........I have been in the business for 35 years....and sure it is reccomended.....but,,,,,

Have a drive service done every 3 years any way...The U joint bellows can be inspected then...If it is leaking then the bellows will have water in it..and the gimbal bearing will show water when it is regreasded...  Also at that time, look at the small bellows that is the shift cable bellows. on the right side if you are out the boat looking forward..turn the steeering wheel to the left and you can see it..  if that is cracked then replace the lower shift cable and bellows....
unless you can see a major crack or hole in the u joint bellows the bellows is normaly OK..but a drive service lets you know..
Also if the u joint bellows or shift cable bellows is leaking you should br taking on water in the bilge..

and yes it will crack and blister with age. but this is how to check it out...

Hope I saved you some hard urned money.....

and worst case if the bellows was cracked and leaking for a long time the ggimbal beraing would also need to be replaced....maybe a 850-950 complete job with no extra things found....

Everett

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