"Reginald P. Smithers III" wrote in message
. ..
All of this talk about low transoms and cut out transoms, being the number
one reason for outboard motors sinking, made me think about the number one
reason I/O engines sink is due to a failure rubber outdrive boot.

I check the boot annually and whenever I go in the water, but has anyone
seen a recommended life on a I/O. Seaworthy Magazine recommends changing
them every 5 years, but does this include fresh water boats?

My boat is 7 years old, and the boot seems as pliable w/o any visible
cracks what so ever, but I am feeling it might be time to change the
sucker.

often wondered the same myself...

My rubber boot is 11 years old and still pliable no signs of dry rot or
brittleness. But I check it often and my boat does not stay in the water.

My last boat sunk for this exact reason. I was leaving it in the water,
hadn't checked the boot and when I came back the boat has sunk. A LOT of
work for a rubber boot!!!!