OMC 4.3l - outdrive off, finding leak and should I also do transom assembly

[donberry]

1988 Dynasty 190 fish and ski with a 4.3l. My first boat and experience with a stern drive. Water was leaking into the bilge at a pretty good clip. Removed outdrive so I can replace bellows etc.....
was wondering if it would be possible for me to determine where it was leaking now by putting water in the bellows and see if it leaks into the boat (when it warms up a little)

I have no idea of the maintenance history of the boat (engine runs fantastic), so should I also go ahead and take off the transom assembly and replace all of those seals ?
I would hate to put the outdrive back on and find it is still leaking - also I really like the boat so figured I may as well do it right to make it last a while.
any info appreciated,.

 

[Bondo]

Re: OMC 4.3l - outdrive off, finding leak and should I also do transom assembly

was wondering if it would be possible for me to determine where it was leaking now by putting water in the bellows and see if it leaks into the boat (when it warms up a little)

Ayuh,... You should have done that Before ya took it apart...
If you pour water into the bellows, Of Course it's gonna run into the boat...
That's the Dry side...

Are there any cracks or holes in the bellows..??