85 HP Stuck Drain Plug - Any Suggestions?

[Mark9740]

I have had my 1986 85HP now for two seasons and am just now changing the LU gear oil but the darn plug is stuck. I used the correct sized allen wrench but I turned so hard that it actually turned (slipped) inside the hex head...I guess the screw was worn. I'm considering using a drill & EZ out but am a bit leary of the metal shavings from drilling coming into contact with the gear oil. Any suggestions? I guess I could always remove the LU from the engine to change the oil if I had to.

Thanks.

 

[pnwboat]

Re: 85 HP Stuck Drain Plug - Any Suggestions?

You can try a torx bit with a 3/8in drive and ratchet. Pound the bit into the hex head opening of the plug. Naturally it will permanently alter the hex head and a regular allen wrench will no longer work. You can continue to use the torx bit from then on, but I would recommend replacing the plug. It has a very unusual thread on the plug. You can order a replacement. This way you don't have to do any drilling. Just have to get a torx bit that is the right size. Big enough to pound in and get a good bite, but not small enough to where you just round out the opening in the plug.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200312707_200312707

 

[eight tracker]

Re: 85 HP Stuck Drain Plug - Any Suggestions?

my 1985 85hp has flat blade screwdriver drain plugs in it,anyway you get a dremel tool and put slots in the head and try geting it out that way,or just drill a hole in it and use an ez out. The metal shavings will come out with the old oil,no worries!


tom

 

[Haywood123]

Re: 85 HP Stuck Drain Plug - Any Suggestions?

I would first try applying heat with a heat gun. Mine was stuck on my 125 and it was mainly because the vinyl washer in it had swelled and locked it all together.