Volvo Penta Sail Drive query

[eddier]

I have a Volvo Penta model 2003 (28HP, 3 cylinder, 18 years old) sail drive. These saildrives have a rubber diaphram between the boat hull and the sail drive to keep water from entering the hull.
Volvo officially advise replacing this every 7 years. This is quite an expensive and difficult task involving removing the motor etc.
The unit on my yacht is now 18 years old and has never been replaced but looks immaculate, smooth and flexible.
The local Volvo agent of course says replace after 7 years but admits no-one ever does.
Has anyone had practical experiance on how long these will last ?
Thanks

<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1>Edited by eddier on 10/02/2003 09:25 (server time).</FONT></P>

 

[tony_brighton]

Re: Volvo Pents Sail Drive query

There's been several posts on this in the past. The general concensus seems to be keep going until it starts to leak as its quite an expense job to replace. When I first got a boat with one of these Volvo advised that there has never been an instance of catastrophic failure.

 

[spannerman]

Again its the same old question of 'cheap insurance' is it cheaper to do it now or later when you are forced to because of leakage and possible damage.
Depending on the access you have around the back of the engine you may not have to remove the engine. I have done several with the engine in situ by pulling the leg up and aft, and supporting the engine on a block, takes about 3-4 hrs plus parts. Also check the condition of the clamping ring as these often rust away degrading the clamping and therefore sealing around the diaphragm.