Mercruiser exhaust bellow not staying on

[Gerhard Peters]

I have a 1995 Bayliner Mercruiser with a 4.3 engine.

I replaced the engine last year. At the same time, I replaced the gimbal bearing, shift cable and bellows. Everything is working fine except for the exhaust below keeps on coming off the stern drive side. This will be the fourth time that I will put it back on. I'm removing the outdrive each time. I have the Mercruiser exhaust bellows expander tool and I know it is all the way on there when I tighten the clamp. When I have the stern drive up while driving it comes off I guess from the vibration. I'm also using the Quicksilver Bellows Adhesive.

Does anyone have some tips on how to do the job for it to stay on?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Usually drill 2 small holes 1 1/2 - 2 inches apart and install 2 brass or SS round head rivets 3/16ths long, force the bellow on and clamp

 

[Gerhard Peters]

Usually drill 2 small holes 1 1/2 - 2 inches apart and install 2 brass or SS round head rivets 3/16ths long, force the bellow on and clamp

You mean drilling the holes into the exhaust below or where it goes on to?

 

[Bt Doctur]

the area the hose attaches to not thru the hose

 

[Bt Doctur]

 

[boozer1966]

I have had the same problem on a 3.0 MR outdrive. Very frustrating. I just kept trying and finally got a good connection. Made sure to clean of the outdrive side really good after each attempt.

I have also read about an exhaust tube that can be used to replace the exhaust bellows. Don’t have a part number, but lots of discussion on this forum.
Good luck.