Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

[hiloboy]

Hello,

I was wondering if anybody has any tricks as to loosening the drain plug of the lower unit? Went to change my l/u gear oil, only to fing that the plug won't budge! Soaked it for a few hours, lightly tapped the back end of a screwdriver, and still no luck!!
Thanks in advance for any help!!
BTW great forum, I have learned a lot just by lurking, hope to be able to add when I can!

Donald

 

[bonzoscott]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

Use a screwdriver with a square shaft and put a wrench or adjustable wrench on the shaft for leverage. Be sure and apply firm pressure. Be sure and use a large screwdriver that fits the slot.

 

[hiloboy]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

Thanks for the quick reply, found a lot of helpful hints in the "similar threads" column.

 

[Will Bark]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

A hand held impact screwdriver works well also.

 

[dodgeboy1979]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

go to the stealership and buy a replacement plug when you get that one out, te replacements are set up for allen keys to tighten/loosen them instead of the flathead.

 

[likitvi]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

I just had to drill through one of those and remove it with an ez-out. :/ Well, I had to force it really tight to stop leaking. When trying to open it, the hole just gave up and key started spinning in it. The issue is why those plastic crush seals were not doing their job properly.

 

[JB]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

A correctly installed plug should come out easily. Install with a new crush gasket every time and tighten only enough to crush the gasket. Reusing the gasket and over tightening the plug will buy you trouble every time.

 

[kbait]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

Impact driver is a must-have. Never fails to pop the stubborn (WAY-overtightened) plugs loose for me.

 

[hiloboy]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

Thanks for all the good information, impact driver saved the day!
I hope to be able to reapy the favor someday!

 

[likitvi]

Re: Removing G/O drain plug on lower unit

Yes, that was a new plug and seal. I have now cleaned the mating surfaces, I shall hope for better success the next season.

Going to get an impact driver also ...