Alpha Gen 2 exhaust bellow connection

[KDawg]

I recently purchased a 1999 Sundancer with a 1998 5.7 EFI and 1998 Alpha gen2 drive. I noticed the exhaust bellow was not connected to the drive to vent the exhaust out through the prop so I connected it.
While viewing some other threads on the forum some were saying that theirs is not connected either.
Should the exhaust bellow be connected to the drive or not?
Thanks

 

[H2ONUT]

There are 2 different exhaust bellows that you can use. One is connected at both ends and the other is only connected at the transom plate. When using the second type, if the drive is in the full down position, it will exhaust thru the prop.

 

[rcknecht]

When the bellows drys out it pulls off... I would recommend you replace them soon... I replaced my bellows last year...

 

[tbirdvet]

It is my understanding that this is a noise issue only. Thru the prop is quieter.

 

[Lazy Daze]

All of the above is good advice. The exhaust bellows doesn't really matter... on the other hand, the other ones is there matter BIG time... as in, they keep your boat from sinking! Take a good look at that exhaust bellows. If it's not looking too good, you will want to get the other ones replaced. Especially if you do not know the maintenance history of this "new to you" boat.

 

[Presentation]

I recently purchased a 1999 Sundancer with a 1998 5.7 EFI and 1998 Alpha gen2 drive. I noticed the exhaust bellow was not connected to the drive to vent the exhaust out through the prop so I connected it.
While viewing some other threads on the forum some were saying that theirs is not connected either.
Should the exhaust bellow be connected to the drive or not?
Thanks

My complements to you for taking a active role in maintaining your boat.

What you described is typical. It’s a poor system for the exhaust bellow.

Just leave it and when you replace it (5 year life span for new bellows) get the one that only attaches on one side.

 

[KDawg]

thanks guys, all great advice.
Although I have had several other boats this is my first I/O. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't being too smart for my own good by reconnecting it. Although the bellow seems to be in fairly good condition I think I will redo them all at the end of this coming boating season.