I have the Bravo Installation kit with the gaskets/rings.

I have read to put some 3M weather stripping adhesive on the gaskets as I reassemble - Does this sound right to everyone? Do you guys use a liberal amount of this or just enough to keep them in place? Seemed to be PLENTY when I took them off.

Also - the kit doesn't come with (nor did one come off the drive when I removed it) any O-ring for the assembly around the drive shaft input (that would potentially keep water out of the bellows). Is there something that seals that portion, or should I use some adhesive around that as well.

Do you have a Recommendation for grease to re-grease the spline? Can that be used as well for the prop?

Since they are Bravos would you guys recommend me switching the drive sides for the next season to even out wear?? I seem to see mixed reviews of this (P.S. - I use this boat like an elderly woman - it was probably WOT for 20-30 seconds last summer)

Any Install tips - ie how to get the drive shaft spline headed in the "right direction" would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Eric

The adhesive is just to hold the gaskets and O-rings in place.
The input shaft ( bellows ) will seal itself.
Merc offers a spline grease.
And I rotate the drives to even out the wear.
OH and I am NOT easy on the drives.
I have blown up an engine or three.

Just put mine back together today. Noticed thick layer of "SLUDGE" in the bottom of gear lube refill bottle in the bilge. Wonder if slow lube could have lead to failure of my drive last September.

I always clean the reservoir botttle every year.
I get a little bit of sludge every year.

Good tip - wouldn't have thought of that.

Thanks for the answers - I appreciate it. I am sure I will be back with more questions.

Any other tips??

Eric.

I just bought a Merc outdrive manual because I,m replacing my bellows too. I learned in the manual that the nose of the drive seals against the bellows by the sleeve. Best $75 I've spent in a long time.