Replacing Trim Tab Anodes

[randerson]

Last fall I noticed that one of my trim tab anodes had broken off and the other was showing signs of galvanic action. Not a big deal I thought, I'll just replace them in the Spring . . . .

Well today I went perform this seemingly simple task and, lo and behold, I cannot budge the allen screw that holds it in place. It's an Alpha I stern drive and I used a large "T" handled 3/8" allen as specified (fit into the head just fine).

Anybody have any hints or ideas regarding this? Do I dare drip some penetrating oil (Liquid Wrench or such) into the opening? I was even thinking of maybe using a large ratchet or cordless drill?? Last thing I want to do is break the bolt! Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Andy
1988 270 Sundancer
Twin 5.7/260's

 

[STIHLBOLTS]

If someone put "Loctite" product on the threads your going to have a hard time getting it off. A larger handle on the T might do the trick. Some penetrating oil, let it sit over night and if that dont work give PB Blaster a try. :smt024

 

[eddie]

use a propane torch to heat up the trim tab and it will come right off.loc-tite is sort of like a glue and the heat will soften it.
eddie

 

[fwebster]

It doesn't matter if you break the bolt....you want it off anyway.

The more likely problem is that the annode will begin to turn. In that case, grab it with a c-clamp. If you cannot budge it at all, then grinmd the nut out of the annode, but don't cut in to the trim tab.

Be careful with heat near the actuator on the tab.....lots of plastic parts and they don't like heat very much. If you want to use a torch, I'd take the actuator loose and let the tab fall away from it.