MC-1 Gimbal ring removal woes

[ttownthomas]

I'm taking apart (in order to restore it) my gimbal assembly (1972 L6 165 Mecruiser) and the FSM says there is an allen head pipe plug here at the top of the gimbal ring. I can see the remnants of something here but whatever it is has corroded measurably. What size allen head is this hole supposed to be and if it is all stripped out what is the best way to remove it?

gimbal ring - 1 (1) by ttownthomas, on Flickr

gimbal ring - 1 by ttownthomas, on Flickr

 

[ttownthomas]

I’m starting to wonder if this transom assembly is beyond refurbishment

 

[Scott06]

I’m starting to wonder if this transom assembly is beyond refurbishment

I think that is correct may be worth finding a newer alpha one gen one or two complete tear out

 

[ttownthomas]

Will the outer transom assembly come off with the motors in the boat? Wouldn't it have to be replaced with an MC1 gimbal assembly from an inline 6?

 

[Bondo]

Will the outer transom assembly come off with the motors in the boat? Wouldn't it have to be replaced with an MC1 gimbal assembly from an inline 6?

Nope,......

 

[ttownthomas]

Nope,......

Is "nope" the answer to both questions?