Bellows Adhesive

[Loyd Dinneen]

I am just getting ready to install the new bellows on the second outdrive I have had to fix because of a previous bad installation and I was wondering if anyone out there have an easy way to apply the adhesive to the flange and bellows where it doesn't dry up before the bellows are installed. It is really a messy job to do. I have used my finger tried a small acid brush and this time a popsicle stick. Any other ideas out there the internet doesnt show applying the stuff just the bellow installed.

 

[scoflaw]

I have better luck installing the bellows dry. If you noticed, none is used on the original install. I've had bellows slip off when using the adhesive.

 

[NorCal Boater]

I've used it and not used it with no real difference. Most recently, I've been using it. It is messy and there is no real easy way. I just get it on the best way I can.

Shawn

 

[Loyd Dinneen]

In this case I have to use the adhesive because it looks as though the u-joints may have blown at one time because the gimbel case flange is bent and has a crack in it and the adhesive will help seal the area. Who ever did work on this last time didnt replace the gimbel bearing when they put in the bellows and it was in bad shape. It also looked like the u-joints had been full of water at one time and not greased to push out the old grease the bellows was full of the old grease a real mess. Oh well when I picked up this 77 240 weekender I figured I would have to do some fixing up just not this much.

 

[Air O'Nautical]

I’m no expert here but, believe what I’ve been told in the past.

The adhesive on the driveshaft Bellows is the most important part of this application.
The single hose clamp on each end really just holds it place to ensure complete contact and adhesion of the glue.

If your bellows comes off in the water your boat will likely sink.

 

[SloBurn]

I've done this more than once, used my fingers to apply adhesive. Messy, but I can feel how smooth mounting surface is when I do it this way.

 

[Loyd Dinneen]

Well I got the the bellows on (took me all day the u-joint bellows fought me tooth and nail) had to make a special tool to hold the u-joint bellows in place while I tightened the clamp which was a bear to get to no matter where I positioned it. The exhaust bellow went right on with my homemade tool and clamped right down. I have to inspect the shift cable bellows before installing the outdrive as I though I saw a small pin hole in it, it is a pain to replace but now is the time with everything open. Oh also I used the popsicle stick and it worked pretty good on the bulkhead side but more difficult on the outside ended up using my fingers.
For some reason it was easier on the port outdrive perhaps I was more precise because I didn't know exactly what to do and followed the online instructions closer, where the clamp was set and having the right screw driver flex extension tool was very important(couldn't find the tool for second install, found it after I was done of course). Next time I will take it to a merc mechanic no matter what the cost is.