bellows replace

[bones774]

Hi All, Looking to replace the 3 bellows on my Alpha one. Done a bit of research and think i'm ready but have some generic questions.
The "mercruiser spline" tool is that just a standard spline drive? of what size?
Bellows adhesive anything special or can it be subbed for any auto adhesives off the shelf?
I don't have a bellows expander, is that going to be critical? It's not like I'm working on the clock.
I'm usually an OEM guy but after doing some reading some people say the aftermarket products do a good job in this instance. any comments?
thanks

 

[thumpar]

Hi All, Looking to replace the 3 bellows on my Alpha one. Done a bit of research and think i'm ready but have some generic questions.
The "mercruiser spline" tool is that just a standard spline drive? of what size?
Bellows adhesive anything special or can it be subbed for any auto adhesives off the shelf?
I don't have a bellows expander, is that going to be critical? It's not like I'm working on the clock.
I'm usually an OEM guy but after doing some reading some people say the aftermarket products do a good job in this instance. any comments?
thanks

Not sure what you mean by the spline tool. Do you mean the alignment tool? If so it is not generic.
Use bellows adhesive.
I used the "$3 exhaust bellows tool" that can be found in the adults only thread.
Bellows is one area where OEM is best. You can get away with aftermarket on some stuff but not so much with bellows.

Just a couple tips. Get a flexible shaft to tighten the clamps. Harbor Freight has them. Make sure you line up the clamps like it shows in the manual. I didn't use the crimp on clamp for the shift bellows. I used a ziptie wrapped around twice as a senior member suggested. Make sure you check the gimbal bearing and u-joints while you are in there.

 

[Fishermark]

If by "spline tool" you mean the hinge pin tool, then you can use a 1/2" allen wrench for it.

Bellows adhesive is the same as 3M Weatherstrip Adhesive.

^^^ Ditto on using OEM for the bellows. I am a big believer and user of aftermarket... but the OEM bellows does seem to be of a better quality in my experience.

 

[rpatton]

Thought there was a special tool for the hinge pins. You mean a 1/2 allen key will fit the pin???

 

[bones774]

If by "spline tool" you mean the hinge pin tool, then you can use a 1/2" allen wrench for it.

Bellows adhesive is the same as 3M Weatherstrip Adhesive.

^^^ Ditto on using OEM for the bellows. I am a big believer and user of aftermarket... but the OEM bellows does seem to be of a better quality in my experience.

Yes, i mean the spline tool. As tight as i see that bolt i would have some concern about using a 1/2" allen tool.

 

[Bondo]

Yes, i mean the spline tool. As tight as i see that bolt i would have some concern about using a 1/2" allen tool.

Ayuh,.... A 1/2" allen key is all I ever use,....

The pin is lock-tited in, so heat the inner end, before ya crank on it,....

 

[bones774]

Ayuh,.... A 1/2" allen key is all I ever use,....

The pin is lock-tited in, so heat the inner end, before ya crank on it,....

OK. thanks

 

[Grub54891]

Ayuh,.... A 1/2" allen key is all I ever use,.... The pin is lock-tited in, so heat the inner end, before ya crank on it,....

Exactly as Bondo said. I've found the allen wrench actually fits better than the tool.

 

[Watermann]

Your going to need a physiatrist after a day of trying to get the exhaust bellows on if you don't use an expander tool. If you want to avoid that problem get the exhaust tube that only fastens to the transom assembly and not the bell housing. Yeah bellows adhesive one of mans most gooey and sticky inventions, use gloves when applying it. Spend some extra time cleaning the bonding surfaces too, the old adhesive is very tough to get off. Wire brush, sand paper, acetone and make sure they're very clean. oh yeah don't get in a hurry and have fun!

 

[thumpar]

Your going to need a physiatrist after a day of trying to get the exhaust bellows on if you don't use an expander tool. If you want to avoid that problem get the exhaust tube that only fastens to the transom assembly and not the bell housing. Yeah bellows adhesive one of mans most gooey and sticky inventions, use gloves when applying it. Spend some extra time cleaning the bonding surfaces too, the old adhesive is very tough to get off. Wire brush, sand paper, acetone and make sure they're very clean. oh yeah don't get in a hurry and have fun!

I was expecting the exhaust bellows to be PITA but it turned out to be the easiest part of the job with the $3 tool. Let the glue setup before putting the bellows in place.

Another tip on the water tube. Put the end of it in boiling water (not touching the bottom) and it will slide right on the gimbal housing fitting.