Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: frozen bolt on lower unit

Posted by Derwd24 on 03/28/08 - 11:23 AM
#5

Heat works great and is the best tool when all else fails. The problem with the big breaker bar is that it'll snap a bolt much easier than a momentary impulse generated from an impact wrench or even a quick blow with a hammer. If it were a grade 8 bolt, you'd be able to effectively strong arm with a breaker bar, but anything else runs the risk of snapping.

Now even if you can get the bolt just a little loose, you're more than half way home. At that point, I soak in penetrating oil and loosen until I hit too much friction. Then I tighten again and loosen just a bit more. Keep doing this along with the penetrating oil and you'll get it. Takes a while but it's not nearly as much hassle as breaking the bolt off and having to deal with that mess!