Leaking Exhaust Bellows

[Texel Tom]

I would appreciate some advice on this please. Other day noticed water dripping into bilge from exhaust pipe and traced it up to the bellows seal. Seems to be seeping past the stainless bands.

Is this a big problem or just a case of resealing them later in the year as long as it doesn't get any worse. It may seem dumb but I don't really understand the exhaust/cooling system.

Than you for any help in advance.

 

[Texel Tom]

Re: Leaking Exhaust Bellows

Sorry forgot to say its a 1988 Mercruiser 3.0

 

[ktbarrentine]

Re: Leaking Exhaust Bellows

Have tried merely tightening the hose clamps. I had this exact problem on 1990 5.0L and it was putting a good bit of water in my bilge during operation. Tightened up the clamps (they had not been touched in 22+ years) and problem solved.
By the way... this is an exhaust "tube" connector... the actual exhaust "bellows" is outside the boat between the transom plate and bellhousing. (but we know what you meant!) (although on the parts list for your engine, the hose clamps are called "bellows" clamps.... go figure!)

At this point it is more of a nuisance than a problem, as long as it doesnt get alot worse and goeas unchecked, and fills your bilge and then, and then.....

 

[alldodge]

Re: Leaking Exhaust Bellows

A slow sweep leak will do nothing except make your bildge pump work every now and then. If your in salt water the corrisive issue can get worst but it is your boat. I don't see anything which will require action today.

 

[Texel Tom]

Re: Leaking Exhaust Bellows

Hey thanks for the gentle correction I appreciate it! So its as simple as it seems exhaust elbow to tube rubber connector? Cooling water exiting along with exhaust gas and leaking past seal? I will do exactly that and tighten the clamp!

Thank you

 

[Texel Tom]

Re: Leaking Exhaust Bellows

Last two posts crossed. Thanks for the reassurance AllDodge. It is salt water so I won't leave it for too long.

 

[djmakko]

Re: Leaking Exhaust Bellows

i'd also check the shutters, this happened to me as well , the shutters were, well, they were not there .