Leaky Bellow on SternDrive, any boat mechanics here?

[robm3]

Hello,

Doing a fresh water flush on the Chris Craft last week and noticed a leak from the bellows:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4lYIdYx_4A

I'm guessing this is a stern drive off, bellow replacement now. I'll probably get the Gimball Bearing done at the same time as well. Shame as it's about 3 years since last done.
Makes sense as I've noticed bilge pump operating when she's floating, so I reckon this is the problem.

Is my assessment correct?

Edited by robm3 on Tuesday 21st September 23:36

[Badda]

Certainly looks that way.
I was always told that they (bellows) should be replaced every 2 years regardless of condition.

[the pips]

I thought the bellows were to keep the drive shaft/UJ out of the water. If you've been getting water in the boat then I suspect you could be in for a lot of work. My UJ needed replacing and if you're doing that then bearings and seals probably need doing as well.
Best of luck and sorry to be the harbringer of doom :-)

[Rum Runner]

Best doing all 3 Drive exhaust and gear bellows if it has all 3
Plus gimble bearing plus zinc
Check manifold and risers as well they always go or about to and given that looks like it been kept in not park and launch even more likely.
You phosphate acid or muritatic acid to clean all the calcified barnacle crap off there first.

Edited by Rum Runner on Saturday 25th September 04:48

[robm3]

Thanks guys, she's off to get the bellows and gimble done tomorrow. Won't need risers as I did those last year. Been freshwater use mainly since and always flushed with salt removing stuff...

I'll post some pictures up.

Cheers,
Robin