muffler flap on transom

[Indiana Rob]

Please correct me if I am using the wrong term "muffler flap". On my 85 TSM6 Comp there are 2 rubber flaps with hose clamps attaching them to the boat. My question is I have noticed when we are out floating around on the lake I have to run my bilge pump every 10-15 minutes because there is water accumulating under the motor. I
am currently working on tightening up the "shaft nut" in drive shaft to the prop also so I know some of the water is from that but I noticed while floating the flaps are
always open about 1/2 to 1 inch. Is this normal or should they be replaced.

Thank you in advance for any information.
Rob

[jzelt]

That is "normal". Only need "replaced" if the flap tears off. Some would probably argue they aren't necessary at all.