Changing drive lube question

[Zorba]

Last fall as i was winterizing and tuning up the boat i attemted to change the outdrive oil. Problem is i couldn't get the drain plug on the bottom of the drive out. ANyone have any tricks to getting the flat head screw to release. Almost seems like the heat of the drive and the different types of metals has caused it to seize. Any suggestions would be appriciated

 

[Stray Cat]

Who ever put the drain plug in last over tightened it. Get a screw driver that fits the entire slot - hold the screw driver square in the slot and push in to hold it in the slot. Then take an adjustable wrench and place it as close to the drain plug on the screw driver as you can. Give a steady pull to loosen it. As long as the slot is not messed up, it should break loose.

If it doesn't....you may have to try an impact driver as a last resort.

 

[tdappleman]

I had to use a impact wrench on one of mine - one was pretty chewed up from the previous person over tightening it. I didn't really help much when I was trying to get it off. I replaced all of the plugs when I was changing the oil just to be safe. You can try to heat it up slightly if you have a torch - don't get it too hot but it may help free it up if all else fails.

 

[Loneranger]

Mine has never been really stuck, but it does help a great deal to have a large properly sized screwdriver. I did not have one that was large enough initially and I boogered mine up a bit until I bought a large screw driver.

John

 

[Tail Chaser 661]

You did turn the screw counterclockwise, didnt you :grin:

 

[Half Off]

I'd suggest an impact driver to get it off and then replace it with a new screw.

 

[danmili]

Concur with Stray Cat. Just did mine today, and I needed a large flathead with an adjustable wrench on the handle for more torque. Came off fine!

 

[Nehalennia]

Before you get an impact wrench find the longest screwdriver you can find that fills the slot. The longer the screwdriver the better the tension you can transfer to the fastener.

Good luck.

 

[jg300da]

Once you've gotten the old one off, install a new screw and gasket each season during your drive oil change. Problem solved.