Bellow outdrive question about maintenance

[Island Dreamer]

Tonight I am taking possession of the 1997 2520 Parker with the Volvo Penta outdrive. I don’t believe that the outdrive has been serviced in the last two or three years and I’ve read that the bellows should be changed every two. Are the bellows something that can be examined by looking at them and feeling the rubber and checking for holes? Or is it something that just should be done no matter what every two years? The boat only got 50 hours of use over the last two years and was kept in a dry lift with covered storage. I’m just really trying to understand the maintenance procedure of the outdrive depending on how it’s used or stored.I am likely going to take it to Pacific Marine in Oxnard tomorrow and would love any other suggestions for service places or mobile mechanics in the Ventura area

 

[Swatski]

COngrats!
Beautiful boat. The amazing thing is, if you told us it is the 2021 model we would believe you, the hull looks the same!
Kind of like Boeing aircraft, lol.

 

[1801Steve]

I recommend you change the bellows. They do have a finite life. You aren't REALLY sure how old they are, so be safe. If it cracks it will probably sink the boat. Pay me now or pay me later....

 

[Island Dreamer]

Thank you both. Im taking it in tomorrow for anything considered "annual" on the outdrive. Hoping its under $1k!

 

[warthog5]

Change the bellow....Chances are good It's never been changed .....and it's 23yrs old!
Boats sink due to that type leak......Pease of mind and safety come to the forfront here.

 

[dcunniff]

I have a '96 2530 with the Duoprop. They should be inspected annually. You can see if there are any cracks. They are pretty durable. I think mine have been replaced 3 times? When not in use, trim the outdrive down in water or on a trailer. The outdrive is solid. Very few things will go wrong.

Dana