Water Pump Help '89 85HP

[LukeB777]

Took the lower unit off to cahnge the water pump and while removing the screws to remove the plastic housing one of the nuts just spins the bolt (Like I need a wrench on the bolt too). But it appears that there is no place to hold the bolt to remove the nut. Any tips or tricks??

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Water Pump Help '89 85HP

Sounds like a dual exhaust lower unit with a Merc designed pump. Four studs are screwed into the casting with four top nuts. Unscrew the whole stud, nut and all then remove the nut with the stud in a vise. If it just spins without coming out, it is stripped and you must apply upward pressure while unscrewing.