Bellows and drive lube hose thoughts...

[90stingray]

First off i am wondering when do you decide bellows need changing? I bought my glastron last year and had one good season so far... but the previous owner couldnt remember when he had bellows done. I pulled drive and inspected during winterization and all seems plyable and servicable. These are definately not originals but they do have a couple seasons on them. Just wondering when is the time to take the plunge and change them. Keep in mind i have never done a bellows job... or i probably would have already changed them.

Second question, the lube reservoir hose at the transom looks original and is getting weathered. Do people normally change this with a bellows job... or on condition?

Lastly, how do you know you did a leak free bellows change? Just wait all season and pull drive during winterization... or just a couple trips out and pull off drive and check?

Thanks, Joe

 

[Don S]

Re: Bellows and drive lube hose thoughts...

We always recommended 5-6 years to our customers, this was salt water boats.

 

[90stingray]

Re: Bellows and drive lube hose thoughts...

5-6 years for just bellows? Or everything rubber... like that gear lube hose? What do you suggest when the age is unknown... but still are pliable? This is inland fresh lakes only. Stored inside when not in use and drive down unless being pulled to the lake. Also, how do you leak check your bellows job?

 

[tazrig]

Re: Bellows and drive lube hose thoughts...

First off i am wondering when do you decide bellows need changing? I bought my glastron last year and had one good season so far... but the previous owner couldnt remember when he had bellows done. I pulled drive and inspected during winterization and all seems plyable and servicable. These are definately not originals but they do have a couple seasons on them. Just wondering when is the time to take the plunge and change them. Keep in mind i have never done a bellows job... or i probably would have already changed them.

Second question, the lube reservoir hose at the transom looks original and is getting weathered. Do people normally change this with a bellows job... or on condition?

Lastly, how do you know you did a leak free bellows change? Just wait all season and pull drive during winterization... or just a couple trips out and pull off drive and check?

Thanks, Joe

Since the bellows is just made of rubber I generally look for the first sign of spider cracks or dry rot and replace them. Like Don said 5-6 years is probably a good place to start. Probably longer in fresh water.

The lube reservoir hose should last longer than a bellows. If you give it a squeeze and it feels a little "crispy" then it's time.

The only way to know (for absolute certain) if you have a good seal on the new bellows is to pull the drive and take a peek. How soon after the instal would depend on your comfort level. If you use enough of the black sealer and your clamps are tight you should be fine.