Are you familiar with the boat bellows? These flexible gaskets protect your boat’s internal systems from getting wet, making them vital to your boat’s operation. For this reason, all boaters need to understand what they are, what they do, and the signs they need replacing. If you avoid replacing them, you could cause major damage to your boat. As leaders in the boating industry, we’re covering everything you need to know about boat bellows in today’s blog post. Stay tuned for a comprehensive overview of what they are and some signs they need replacing. What Are Boat Bellows?
Ah boat bellows, those mysterious devices that look like an accordion but are actually the unsung heroes of the waterways.
While their purpose isn't blowing air to keep a fire lit - it is far more clever than that! Bellows provide watertight protection against rusting by creating a flexible seal over engines and other internal systems used in open-water cooling systems. So while they may not come with any fancy fanfare, rest assured these humble instruments have become saviors on many seafaring journeys!
What Are the Different Types of Boat Bellows
The bellows gaskets are like tiny lifeguards that protect boats from moisture and debris. On watery vessels they fit snugly around the shift cable, U-joints and exhaust - a veritable wall of protection! And to make sure wildlife don't bite off more than they can chew (literally), these rubber saviors contain an extra layer of pesticide defense. Signs Your Bellows Need Replacing Bellows protect your boat from major damage. So, if they aren’t functioning as they should, this could cause significant damage to your boat. Here are some signs you should get them replaced as soon as possible: • Boat leaking: As you probably know, boats shouldn’t take on water. Therefore, if your boat is leaking, a loose gasket or crack might be the answer. • Loud noises: Hearing loud noises while driving your boat might indicate a problem with the gimble bearing and U-joint bellows. If you hear loud noises, check these immediately to see if they're the culprit.
