Transom plate replacement

[littlebookworm]

To make a long story short, I broke off one of the lugs holding the power steering actuator on a 1986 Alpha I drive. I've gotten a used replacemnt inner transom plate. I've read and reread the Mercruiser manual on the procedure for replacing the plate. I've done all the disconnects on the engine (which was just installed last month). I plan to rent a hoist, lift the engine a few inches, slide it forward approximately one foot (I've got the room in the engine bay), lay in on some cribbing, and pull the inner plate. I understand that the out plate must come off as well and a new outer plate transom gasket be installed. I am working alone on this. Are this any tricks to this job? Anything I should watch out for? I used to be an auto mechanic and have been doing all the work on this boat and my previous one, so I'm fairly capable with the mechanics. I've just never done a transom plate before. Thanks in advance for any help or advice you can give. Hy

 

[Bondo]

Re: Transom plate replacement

Ayuh,....

Look for Rotten Wood while you're in there,....

 

[littlebookworm]

Re: Transom plate replacement

Thanks, Bond-o, will do that. I am a little concerned about physically handling the outer transom and lining everything up to bolt the inner and outer together. I plan on gluing the gasket to the outer one and shooting some 4200 into the bolt holes. How heavy is the outer transom, say, compared to the outdrive? Hy

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Transom plate replacement

It's not that heavy. I have a used transom assembly laying outside my shop - maybe 25 - 35 pounds give or take? Also, forget the 4200. Not needed and would be a nightmare getting off in the future.

 

[littlebookworm]

Re: Transom plate replacement

OK, got the replacement inner transom plate yesterday. It's clean, just needs the ground bolt loosened and removed and a new coat of paint. I'm hoping to be able to get to the marina next Friday to slide the engine forward and remove the plate. Hope all goes smoothly, though things rarely do. To be continued. Hy

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Transom plate replacement

1 pull the drive
2 pull the engine
3 remove the "Y" pipe
4 remove the steering assembly
5 remove the 2 hyd trim lines from the pump
6 remove the inner plate.
Cant just slide it foward either, because of the alignment issues and rear motor mount assembly