Marine: Boating, Sailing, PWC, GPS and Navigation - Rubber bellows replacement

I have a 1987 Wellcraft Nova with the 260 Mercruiser and the rubber bellows that covers a cable from the stern to the outdrive is split. How hard of a job is this to replace and how is it done?

Thanks

The cable is the shifter. The boot's not difficult to replace. After you disconnect the shift cable from the stern drive, the boot slides off (or cut it off, being careful not to damage the cable).

The new boot won't go on easy unless you lather it up real good with dishwashing detergent. Seriously -- it's the best lubricant for the job. It won't damage the components and it will dissolve away when you're done.

While you're there, take a good look at the other bellows to see if it's ready to go away.

Thanks Rick, I'll get this done this weekend...

I just looked at it and the clamp closest to the stern looks really hard to get to. Is there a trick to get to it?

I recall that it was a pain, but doable. A small socket and ratchet works better than trying to get a screwdriver in there. I can't remember if I pulled the drive off for easier acess.