replacing the bellows

[beanz2166]

Im planning on replacing my bellows in the next few weeks, Im wondering is it nessecary to buy all the "special" tools recommended? I know some like the hinge pin, are needed but do I really need to buy the bellows expander and some of the other stuff?

 

[achris]

Re: replacing the bellows

What are you working on? If it's a Gen II, I recommend you use the installer tool for the uni bellows. Yes it can be done without it, but it is SO much easier with it (and a can of Power Tune)... and the hinge pin tool. You only need the bellows expander tool for the exhaust bellows.

Chris....

 

[boozer1966]

Re: replacing the bellows

I changed bellows on a Mercruiser 140 with an Alpha One MR outdrive last year. No prior experience, and I found the exhaust bellows tool to be invaluable. Highly recommend it. Definitely worth the money.

 

[slag]

Re: replacing the bellows

I've done it without on an alpha 1. Wasn't worth the $45.00 or so they want for the tool. Maybe if I did 10 of these a year but not worth it at least for me.

 

[Bondo]

Re: replacing the bellows

Im planning on replacing my bellows in the next few weeks, Im wondering is it nessecary to buy all the "special" tools recommended? I know some like the hinge pin, are needed but do I really need to buy the bellows expander and some of the other stuff?

Ayuh,.... Whatcha workin' on,..??

a 1/2" allen key works insteada the hinge tool,...
A Gen.II drive bellows requires a can of Power Tune, 'n yer fingers,...
The exhaust bellows expander is Required to get the darn thing On, No way 'round it...
But if yer kinda "Handy", makin' 1 is pretty easy...

A 1/4" drive socket set, with several different length extensions, 'n wobblies is Invaluable in that Job too....
Regardless which drive yer workin' on....

 

[Hoosmatroos]

Re: replacing the bellows

In the Netherlands we have an expression for these things:

"Goed gereedschap is het halve werk"

When I translate it, it would be something like:

"Good tools do half the job"

Nothing is more true in my opinion.