need a little help changing lower unit oil

[supermuff]

Anyone every have to drill out the lower drain plug screw before.
This is the first time i am attemting to change oil and the bottom screw is locked.
Any tricks out there to try before i attempt this?
Thanks in advance

 

[Capt Ken]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

Take a small punch, place it on the end of the groove and by hitting it with a hammer, spin it counter clockwise. Do no drill it out. There is probably a small magnet on the end and you will push it out and it will find its way into the bearings or gears.

 

[99yam40]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

Have you tried an impact screw driver? The one you hit with hammer.

 

[robert graham]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

You need a large slot-head screwdriver...the blade of screwdriver should fit tightly in the slot so it doesn't slip out when you put the torque on it. If your blade is slightly to thick then file it to fit the slot perfectly. Good Luck!

 

[joe009]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

i agree with 99yam40 you need a impact screw driver.i have been using one for 25 yrs.

 

[supermuff]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

Impact driver was the ticket.
I now have a few more questions.
The oil looked creamyh colored.
This indicates a water leak.
A: Should i add oil and recheck after a few hours of use? the reason i would do this is becuase the screw seals were in 2 pieces and very brittle.
B: Go get it leak tested. If i do this what is the typical cost and what would a appromiate cost to replace the seal if it is bad?
Thanks again for your help and knowledge

 

[robert graham]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

Lower unit can leak at those drain plug washers(hopefully your case), but also at prop shaft seals, drive shaft seal or shifter shaft seal on top of lower unit. Best to drain, refill with fresh oil, run motor(while shifting gears), drain lower unit again, refill with fresh oil....use new drain plug washers...don't need to use that impact driver to tighten them! Good Luck!

 

[99yam40]

Re: need a little help changing lower unit oil

While you have it off just follow the steps in the manual and pressure test, it beats having to go back and pull it again