Lower unit bolt-up

[standfas]

One of the bolts on my '72 9.5hp 'Rude broke off. I tried a screw extractor to remove the bolt. The screw extractor broke off in the bolt. I've tried to drill it out, but the hardness of the screw extractor prevents this. What harm could come my way if I used only three bolts on the lower unit? Also, does anyone have any suggestions on removing the broken screw extractor and bolt?

 

[Skyhigh]

Re: Lower unit bolt-up

Try to heat it up first, then use a punch and a left handed drill bit....<br /><br />Use the punch first...

 

[Hooty]

Re: Lower unit bolt-up

You can save yourself a lot of grief and troubly if you take the leg loose from the powerhead (10 - 12 bolts, one gasket) and take it a machine shop. There's one or two right there in Houston. <br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[SeaMasterZ@aol.com]

Re: Lower unit bolt-up

unless he snaps off MORE bolts undoing the powerhead!<br /><br />PB Blaster may help tho<br /><br />good luck

 

[standfas]

Re: Lower unit bolt-up

This is same motor that had a lengthy thread a week or so ago. I had to take the power head and exhaust manifold off the re-insert the water tube. I'm now WELL versed in removing the power head. ha ha ha. What would happen if I only used three bolts on the lower unit?

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Lower unit bolt-up

It's probably not a good idea to run the motor on 3 bolts. Not having all the bolts installed could throw things out of alignment, driveshaft, waterpump etc. It was designed with four, for strength. Take good advise, get it repaired at the machine shop. You'll have the peace of mind knowing that the lower unit won't hit the bottom of the lake or leave you stranded.