Challanger Drive Shaft Seal Questions

[connycoba]

Hello,
I just bought a -96 Challenger and I have a question.
I have not had the boat in the water yet so I don't know if this is a problem or not but when I pull on the rubber bellow on the drive shaft where the Forward clamp is (Red Line), it moves up and down about 1/2 inch or so.
The part that is on the shaft towards the engine (yellow line) does not.
I understand there is a seal in there and my concern is that I will take in water there du to the play.

Thanks
Conny

 

[seadooya]

thank you very much...

your good. Thats normal, for it to move. Thats your lifeline as to keeping water out and sinking the boat. Godd that you inspected it. Inspect the "carbon" ring for ANY chips or cracks, if so, replace the ring.

 

[Dennis]

Drive shaft seal

The two parts that you mention ARE the items (seal) that keep water from coming in. The 1/2 in. movement is normal.
DAWG

 

[connycoba]

That was some quick replies, Glad I asked...

Okay so how do I inspect the seal for any cracks or nicks?
I guess loosen the clamps and pull back on the bellow, or do I have to take the engine out for that?

Thanks

 

[seadoosnipe]

Seal?

No, pull back on the boot. The two pieces you want to look at, are the two pieces that mate up when the boot is relaxed. There is a seal on the shaft, that is metal and should be smooth and flat. The carbon seal is inside the end of the boot, held by the clamps. It should be smooth with no knicks or gouges in it. The boot should also be pretty stiff, so it can hold enough pressure on the seal and ring...........:cheers:

 

[voodoo]

I have a 1997 challenger the drive line looks the same but my flex rubber is all wiped out, I have a spare from my 95 gtx that fits right in there, besides regular greasing is there any reason not to use the earlier style seal carrier?