Lower transom bolts broke off

[Dave87]

So today I was out boating and I hit some rocks didn't seem like a hard hit as I was just barely moving forwards. I noticed i started taking on water. When I pulled the boat out of the water I noticed the lower transom bolts broke off. I was wondering how easy of a fix is this? Can I do this myself. It's an alpha one foot if that helps

 

[alldodge]

Howdy Dave

Need more info on your drive, serial numbers are best, but years help. Also can you post some pics?
Check the transom and see if its soft.

 

[Dave87]

Thanks for the quick response. The serial number is 181r 0F705425. Transom is not soft at all. It's a 1991 cadorette with a 4.3l mercruser. I will post pics asap

 

[Rick Stephens]

Those bolts are made to shear off if you hit something hard enough. Better than breaking your gimbal housing. May simply be able to replace them and the rubber gaskets that go under them. Only use OEM Mercruiser parts for that. However, you must do a complete survey of the transom and drive before you assume it isn't damaged anywhere. AllDodge knows this stuff backwards and forwards, I'll bet he additional thoughts.

 

[alldodge]

Being a 91 model, it is probably a Gen 2 assembly. The serial number listed is for a 1996-1997 Gen 2

Need to look over the transom assembly and pull the drive. It could be you broke the transom inner plate, and if so need to remove the motor to get at it. If not the plate then the assembly is broke

http://www.mercruiserparts.com/bam/subassembly/30858/1017/30

 

[Dave87]

[No message]

 

[alldodge]

Well that's not a Gen 2, and check the inner plate to see if there are any cracks

Its items 18 thru 21
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/bam/subassembly/30872/2203/30

And 17 and 18
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/bam/subassembly/30872/2203/20

 

[Dave87]

There are no cracks. What would be my next step?
Is it necessary to remove the motor to change the assembly?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Yep ,it is GEN II judging by the rams . Pull the drive , pull the motor , remove the remaining nuts and bolts and inspect everything for cracks

 

[Bt Doctur]

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/14/14a2.pdf

 

[Dave87]

I appreciate all the help and info. I've decided to let my marine mechanic do this as I don't have the time or the space to pull out the motor. I will let everyone know how much it ends up costing. The mechanic estimated 600$ plus parts.

 

[Alumarine]

If it gets to be more than that it might be worthwhile to file an insurance claim.