SX-M Split Bellows

[NoExcuses]

I installed a new OEM bellows 2 years ago, I found water in my bellows with a broken u-joint shaft that had to be replaced. The bellows has split at the interface of the plastic bellows portion and the rubber portion that connects to the pivot housing. Is this something that happens frequently or did I just get unlucky? I'd prefer an all rubber bellows instead of this hybrid, are there any good after market solutions? I've read in this forum that after market is risky as well.

 

[Augoose]

for storage, are you dropping your drive down to relax the stretch on the bellows or are you storing the drive in the up position?

 

[Lou C]

If this is the SX series it may be possible to use one for an OMC Cobra because at one time they used the same bellows. The OE ones for the Cobra can last up to 10 years in my experience.