Small leak possible steering shaft

[Fippe]

Hello,

I have a 2400scr from 97 with alpha one gen 2 out drive,
This summer it started leaking after a workshop changed all bellows,
Whent back and they told me it's the steering shaft that's leaking,
The total amount of water that has leaked in to the boat is about 1-2l liters over a period of almost 4 months,
The only time it's leaking is when engine is on but we are standing still and water bubbling up or when we are many people on board so the bot is rear heavy.

The workshops tells me that to fix this there's two ways and both of them cost about 3000$
I have come to an understanding that owning a boat is never sheep, but it feels like a lot of money for a small amount of water,

Is it neseserly to fix the leek at once or can I use the boat for another season?

[mmwjr]

If it is the swivel shaft seal that is leaking the shaft itself will probably need to be replaced as the water and play that occurs causes wear. Eventually the steering will get rather sloppy and you will need to have this done.

IMO wait till the end of your season and have it done.

This is a common issues and most mechanics check for play when they perform the bellows job and recommend the repair at this time.

[Fippe]

I changed the bellows in April this year and the mechanic didn't say anything about that, I have my self noticed that I have a small play in the steering, nothing that I suffering of,

The reason I wonder if it's possible to push this repair 1 or two years is because the bellow change this spring would feel like throwing money in the lake if I do the repair this fall or before next summer.

I plan to fix it but if I can get two seasons out of the bellow change my wallet would feel better.

[mmwjr]

You should be able to get away with waiting, however the current bellows should be able to be reused if you do the job now but the u- joint sleeve may need to replaced doing so.