Water hose & bellows replacement

[CaptRon66]

I'm replacing the bellows and water hose on my 1971 International. It has a Mercruiser 165 straight 6. The hose purchased came in a 49" length and must be cut. I can't find the length in the service manual. Can anyone tell me what length the hose needs to be between the bell and gimbal housings on an old Mercruiser 1 ?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Water hose & bellows replacement

make sure the hose is double wall not just heater hose. it will collapse.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Water hose & bellows replacement

13 7/8 is the optimal length.

http://www.iboats.com/Mercruiser-Water-Intake-Hoses/dm/view_id.269825

With the hose pointing out the back (natural curve or twist in hoses) makes it much easier to get back on the bell side.