Removing frozen tilt-tube

[swist]

My hydraulic steering tilt tube (the one that goes right throught the tilt pivot on the engine) is frozen in place. *** the advice I am getting says penetrating oil plus heat.<br /><br />Is this heat as in a regular portable propane torch I can take to the boat? And is penetrating oil flammable (not to mention the assorted gunk and grease in the area)? Can someone give me a safe way to do this job, or is it better left to a yard? There is a good 6" or more of the rod inside the pivot shaft - that's a lot of corroded surface area to break free.

 

[cinder1995]

Re: Removing frozen tilt-tube

If we're talking about the same thing, I had to cut mine in two different spots with a sawzall to beat it out.Then I had to machine a new one to replace it.<br /><br />Hopefully heat and lube work for you though.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Removing frozen tilt-tube

Swist, The penetrating oil is indeed very flammable. Before you try the heat, try using a pipe wrench to rock the stainless steering rod back and forth, in the tilt tube. If you can move it at all, I suggest you work it with penetrating oil and the the pipe wrench until the wheel can be turned (with difficulty) to starboard. This will expose more of the steering rod and allow you to lube it and clean it with a rag. Eventually it should work loose. Then lubricate it with Merc's Special Lube 101 or marine grease.