4.3 GXI-E Zerk fitting on outdrive

[GMTK]

I've read some threads about the zerk fitting on the outdrive pulling out when used and a plastic tube attached to it. It appears my zerk is connected to a rubber tube. Also, one of the manuals I have says on to use this zerk when the outdrive is off; so what's the point of having it exposed? I was going to go ahead and put some grease in the zerk but not if I have to pull the drive off. Any input is appreciated. And I did not pull the outdrive this year. Mechanic inspected the bellows and said they look great and the drive will get pulled after this season.

 

[bruceb58]

You should be pulling the drive off annually. You want to rotate the bearing with your hand while putting grease in it.