do I need to replace the drive seal after Checking the gimbal bearing?

[ryan04]

I have a 1996 Maxum with a 4.3 Mercruiser.I just checked the gimbal bearing and the u joints and everything seems to be ok. Do I need to replace the seal before I put the drive back on after checking alignment of course.? The seal is in perfect shape.

 

[tpenfield]

Which 'seal' are you referring to? O-ring on the drive shaft? Some will say yes, others will say no.

 

[NHGuy]

The seal between the drive and the bellhousing shouldn't be reused. If you are certain it's perfect it could work, but if it fails water enters the boat!

 

[Merc4ever]

There is a cheap kit for my Bravo unit with all the gaskets needed that I get when I do this. Sierra part 18-2615 for Bravo, I'm sure they make one for the Alpha drive.

 

[ryan04]

ya, it's the bell housing seal when you pull the drive. It has no tears no dents, i can still read the printing on the gasket. I got the boat 4 months ago an was just checking the gimbal and the u joints, so he may have done everything already which is why it looks this way. Bearing is good, same with u joints. So i was just curious. I'll go grab a seal just in case though. I live in Canada so a $10 seal in the USA costs $50 here. Thanks guys

 

[wellcraft-classic210]

CONSIDER MAIL ORDER -- Using Sites like Wholesale marine, Ebay & Iboats. Its often about 1/2 the price of the local resellers. It does require some added careful planning and or waiting. I assume they ship to Canada.