What are outdrive bellows and why are they so important?

Outdrive bellows protect your boat from water intrusion by sealing critical areas around the drive, including the U-joint, exhaust, and shift cable. If a bellows cracks or leaks, water can enter the boat and damage the gimbal bearing, U-joints, or even the engine. Regular inspection and timely replacement are essential for safe operation.

How do I know if my bellows need to be replaced?

Common signs include water in the bilge, unusual noises from the outdrive, vibration while underway, or visible cracks in the bellows. Bellows typically last 5–7 years, but saltwater exposure in Newport Beach and Long Beach can shorten their lifespan.

What is a gimbal bearing and when should it be replaced?

The gimbal bearing supports the driveshaft and allows the outdrive to pivot smoothly. If it becomes worn or water-damaged, it can cause grinding noises, vibration, and drivetrain damage. We always inspect the gimbal bearing during bellows replacement and recommend replacement if there are signs of wear or corrosion.

Do you replace all bellows or only the damaged ones?

For reliability, we recommend replacing all bellows at the same time—U-joint, exhaust, and shift cable bellows. This prevents future leaks and avoids repeat labor costs. During the service, we also inspect clamps, seals, and alignment.

Is this service available in the marina or does the boat need to be hauled out?

In most cases, outdrive bellows and gimbal bearing service can be performed in the water at marinas in Long Beach and Newport Beach. If additional repairs are required, we will advise whether a haul-out is necessary before proceeding.

How long does bellows and gimbal bearing replacement take?

Most bellows replacements take one full service day. If the gimbal bearing also needs replacement, the job may take additional time. We always provide a clear timeline and keep you informed throughout the process.

Do you provide warranty on bellows and gimbal bearing service?

Yes, all replacement parts are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, and our labor includes a workmanship warranty ranging from 3 to 12 months depending on the scope of work. Full documentation is provided for your records and future resale value.

Marine technician working on the transom of a boat on a trailer, reaching into the gimbal housing to replace the U-joint bellows and gimbal bearing after removing the sterndrive.

Outdrive Bellows Replacement & Gimbal Bearing Service

SKU

2146

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$150.00

The only thing keeping the ocean out of your boat is a thin piece of rubber. We replace cracked outdrive bellows and noisy gimbal bearings to keep your bilge dry and your ride smooth.

Details

The Critical Seal

Don't Let the
Ocean In.

The drive bellows are the only barrier preventing seawater from flooding your boat. When they crack, the boat sinks. We replace these critical rubber seals and service your gimbal bearing for a safe, quiet ride.

The "Big 3" Bellows

We replace the entire set: The **U-Joint Bellows** (keeps water out of the boat), the **Exhaust Bellows** (reduces noise), and the **Shift Cable Bellows** (ensures smooth shifting). We use only OEM Quicksilver or Volvo rubber.

Gimbal Bearing Service

Hearing a "growl" when you turn the steering wheel? That's a bad gimbal bearing. Usually caused by a leaking bellows letting water wash away the grease. We install new, sealed-for-life bearings.

Engine Alignment

Every time the drive is pulled, alignment must be checked. We use a precision alignment bar to ensure the engine coupler is perfectly centered with the gimbal bearing, preventing coupler burnout.

The Replacement Protocol.

A deep dive into the transom.

Drive Removal

We remove the outdrive unit completely to access the transom assembly. This is the perfect time to inspect U-joints for rust.

Clean & Prep

Old glue and corrosion are the enemy. We wire-brush the aluminum mounting surfaces on the transom shield until they are perfectly clean to ensure a watertight bond.

Install & Bond

We install the new bellows using marine-grade bellows adhesive and stainless steel clamps, positioning them exactly to allow full trim and tilt range without binding.

Alignment

We insert the alignment tool. If it doesn't slide in with two fingers, we adjust the front engine mounts until it does. Only then do we reinstall the drive.

Silence the Growl.

Smooth operation starts here.

New U-Joint Bellows Installed

Gimbal Bearing Press

Precision Alignment Tool

Service Life.

Don't wait until they leak.

Replacement Interval Every 5 Years (Saltwater use)

Shift Cable Replace with bellows (Preventative)

Symptoms Water in bilge, Growling on turns

Common Questions

How do I know if my bellows are bad?

Visual inspection is best. Look for cracks in the rubber folds when the drive is tilted up. If you see water in the bilge that isn't coming from the engine, it's likely the bellows.

Should I change the shift cable too?

Yes. We highly recommend it. The shift cable runs through the bellows. Since we have everything apart, replacing the cable now saves you hundreds in labor later.