Re: Broken Bolt on 85hp Lift Bracket
The original bolt was a shoulder bolt with 5/16 threads, about a 3/8-1/2 inch shoulder and a 3/4 inch head. It is best to use this part as it is sized to clear the mounting clamp as the engine is lowered.
The classiest repair I have seen was: They drilled out the bolt all the way through the casting, re-tapped the casting for a 1/2 inch bolt, then drilled and tapped the 1/2 bolt for 5/16 and used the original equipment shoulder bolt. The 1/2 inch bolt was secured with threadlocker. A little more work, but cheaper that a Heli-Coil or similar.
You can get Heli-Coils and similar thread repairs at Pep Boys and Fastenal.
Remember, that part is almost always dunked in tne water. Only stainless will do for permanent repairs.
The original is a stainless bolt, and it would be best if you used some cobalt steel bits. They are a bit expensive but work best. Start with a small pilot and enlarge the hole. Drill slowly with a lot of pressure. Too fast and you will melt the drill bit tip.
