Gimbal housing to transom seal installation

[fsjcowboy]

I have a '96 Wellcraft Excel 19SX with a 4.3L Mercruiser and Alpha 1 Gen II outdrive (outdrive S/N OF865708). I am replacing the gimbal housing seal (OEM 43713). This is the large rubber seal that is located between the outside transom and the gimbal housing. When I referenced the Merc manual for installation, there was no mention or illustration of any type of gasket sealer being applied to this seal. The old seal had none that I could tell and it removed cleanly. Is it a good idea or just insurance against any leakage to use a sealer when reinstalling this seal? If so, what brand/ type of sealer would you recommend? This is the first, and I hope the last, time I ever do this on this boat. Whew!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Gimbal housing to transom seal installation

Ayuh,... It goes on Dry,... Why are you changing it,..??
If it was leaking, it's a sign of a Rotten transom...

 

[45Auto]

Re: Gimbal housing to transom seal installation

It's a common practice to use Bellows Adhesive to hold the new seal to the transom assembly so it doesn't slip out of the corners when you're installing it onto the transom. I've never seen any type of sealant or adhesive on the transom, the seals always come off it clean.

 

[fsjcowboy]

Re: Gimbal housing to transom seal installation

Boy! Can't get nuthin' past Bond-o. Yep. I had some transom rot. It is now repaired and the outdrive is ready to be mounted. That's why I asked about the seal. Thanks for the verification and your knowledge.