Bellows inspection check what do You think

[Franco_boater]

Hello
Before every season I’m inspecting my bellows, after last season I’ve found something like that; is this groove normal ?
I’m also missing clip on the cable bellow because it was rusted (Last pic) Can i use regular zip tie? My boat is in the water during the summer

Ciao

 

[achris]

Those are wear marks on the Uni bellows. It needs to be replaced. I found that the hinge pins are about 1 thread too long and protrude out and rub the bellows as you turn the wheel. If you can machine one thread off, that should stop it done that again.

Yes, a cable tie on the small end of the shift cable bellows is recommended.

Chris...

 

[Franco_boater]

Thank You so you have experience with that? Is it common problem or just my boat has issue? That’s quite serious i guess

 

[dubs283]

Is it common problem or just my boat has issue?

Common for all mercruiser transom assys. Mercury recommends replacing all bellows every five years as routine maintenance. Looking at these pics it's been way longer than five years and there appears to be age cracking on the u joint bellows. If you are unsure of maintenence history or know it's been much longer than five years I would recommend a full transom reseal. This includes both u joint and exhaust bellows, new shift cable (complete) and bellows, trim senders, water passage hose (alpha style transom) and gear lube monitor hose (if equipped).

Reason for complete replacement is to be starting fresh with new everything back there, a confirmed baseline for future maintenance reference

 

[Scott06]

Thank You so you have experience with that? Is it common problem or just my boat has issue? That’s quite serious i guess

Mine look exactly the same wear marks on side of u joint bellows so not just your boat. Otherwise my 2004 bellows are in perfect condition, no cracks

 

[achris]

I've replaced a lot for that very reason. I always machine one thread off the end of each hinge pin before putting them back in.

Chris...