Saildrive diaphragm failing

[YourMomma]

Has anyone ever had their saildrive diaphragm fail? We just bought an etap26 and it has been sitting in storage for 30 years. Only in the water for 5 years before it was put away. We are contemplating changing out the saildrive diaphragm but we aren't sure if we even have to because it may be good still.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Captain Bill]

Saildrive diaphragms are recommended to be replaced every 7 years by the manufacturers which IMO is very conservative. I replaced mine at 7 years but they were in perfect condition. These things are made of a rubber compound and are much more subject to deterioration in air than in water. Oxygen, especially ozone from air pollution, and temperature changes are the enemy of any rubber type compound. There is a lot more oxygen in air than in water and the temperature changes are much larger as well. Since these seals are 35years old and have spent most of that time in the air, not the water I would think it would be wise to change them.

[YourMomma]

Originally Posted by Captain Bill

Saildrive diaphragms are recommended to be replaced every 7 years by the manufacturers which IMO is very conservative. I replaced mine at 7 years but they were in perfect condition. These things are made of a rubber compound and are much more subject to deterioration in air than in water. Oxygen, especially ozone from air pollution, and temperature changes are the enemy of any rubber type compound. There is a lot more oxygen in air than in water and the temperature changes are much larger as well. Since these seals are 35years old and have spent most of that time in the air, not the water I would think it would be wise to change them.

Thank you!