Can't get @!@# gimball pins loose! Any ideas? Dynamite?

[Homerr]

I have the right 12 point tool.<br />I heated the gimbal ring, and set my impact wrench to highest setting.<br /><br />I can't even budge the pins!<br /><br />This is on a 1976 Merc 233 MC-1.<br /><br />Any ideas?<br /><br />How much should I (can I) heat the gimbal ring?<br /><br />H.

 

[hondon]

Re: Can't get @!@# gimball pins loose! Any ideas? Dynamite?

Heating the bell housing will usually melt the loctite that is on the threads of those pins enough to allow you to get them out. What are you using as a heat source?A propane torch is likely not enough.It just kinda warms things up.Oxy acetelene is what your after.

 

[Homerr]

Re: Can't get @!@# gimball pins loose! Any ideas? Dynamite?

Yes, that's what I used. An Oxy/Acetylene system.<br /><br />I can get it hotter than you-know-what, but I don't want to melt it!<br /><br />So how hot is hot?<br /><br />H.

 

[copus]

Re: Can't get @!@# gimball pins loose! Any ideas? Dynamite?

Homerr....On my buddies 1975 mercruiser 233 the threaded pins have smaller pins that look like nails and lock them in. They are toward the inside of the housing. You have to look good to see them. maybe you have the same.Pull these out first.<br />Copus

 

[IndySpecialty]

Re: Can't get @!@# gimball pins loose! Any ideas? Dynamite?

hondon & copus: gave you good tips, 1 more to think about if you have the pins out, if it has them & you have it hot enough, I don't know what your Idea of a impact is but I use a 3/4 drive turned down, it has huge hammers in it & seens to work way better then a small 1/2 inch drive turned up high.<br /><br />good luck.

 

[Homerr]

Re: Can't get @!@# gimball pins loose! Any ideas? Dynamite?

Thanks again for the replies...<br /><br />I couldn't find any pins on mine. <br /><br />I also use a 1/2" impact. Maybe I need to get a bigger one, or heat it more.<br /><br />I think I'm going to get a newer Alpha system anyways, since my mechanic said my drive needs major work.<br /><br />Thanks for all the help,<br /><br />H.