boat was swamped

Question
Hi Ron,
Our 18-ft open bow Mariah Shabah (1996) was almost submerged yesterday - luckily a neighbor alerted us to this and we were able to prevent it from going under completely. The problem is that a bellows (?) or a hole in the shifting cable caused the water to flow in ; the bilge was running continuously, until the battery died and the boat began to take on water. The water was up to the seats by the time we were able to get it to our neighbor's hoist. We figured it had been taking on water for about a week.

What steps do we need to take immediately to prevent any further damage?

Thanks for your response.

Answer
Hi Janet

Thank you for selecting me to respond to your question.

1. Pull the drain plug and drain all water from the hull.

2. Remove seats & cushions place in sun in a windy or well
  ventillated area to dry.

3. Check oil dip stick for milky oil - if affirmative,
  drain oil, remove spark plugs, hand crank engine a
  few times and remove water from top of pistons.

4. Via spark plug holes, fog cylinder walls with a product
  that contains a moisture removal and lubrication
  solution, and crank over engine to lubricate cylinder
  walls and piston rings.

5. Refill engine with oil.

6. Spray ignition system with a moisture removal product,
  including steering and throttle cable controls.

7. Using ignition key, turn over engine a few times
  before actually starting and running the engine. This
  will help to lubricate the engine, the crank shaft,
  etc. Run the engine for at least 1/2 hr. to dissipate
  any residual moisture within the engine block.

8. Any electronic devices that became submerged will
  likely require replacement, unless they are water
  tight.

9. Flush and clean debris, etc. from interior of boat,
  power wash exterior.

10.Replace bellows between intermediate housing and stern
  drive.

The bellows you referred to was likely damaged by debris, such as a piece of wood getting stuck there when making a sharp turn. Alternatively, muskrats often chew through the rubber. The best solution is to replace the bellows with one that is reinforced with steel fibers, which most manufacturers, marinas, and marine supply stores usually have in stock.

That's about it Janet. Good luck,and

Safe Boating
Ron