Lower Unit removal - 120hp Force '96

[Trophyman2]

I have done this many times before on Mercruiser and my Force Outboard. Am I missing something? I removed the 5 nuts that hold the lower unit in place but can't get the LU to seperate from the Upper Unit. I believe the rear stud/bolt is seized do to corrosion. The four outside studs have movement but i can't get movement on the rear center. I have applied penetrating oil, heat and pressure. No movement. Broke the short casting above the anode in the process. Will have to repair with JB weld. Any thoughts or am I missing something.

 

[anple]

Re: Lower Unit removal - 120hp Force '96

I used a wooden block / rubber mallet to tap around to make it come loose...

 

[Port Monster]

Re: Lower Unit removal - 120hp Force '96

DO NOT tap on the anti-cavitation plate!!!! It is very thin and susceptable of breaking!

 

[anple]

Re: Lower Unit removal - 120hp Force '96

DO NOT tap on the anti-cavitation plate!!!! It is very thin and susceptable of breaking!

It's common sense...

 

[Trophyman2]

Re: Lower Unit removal - 120hp Force '96

Has anyone had any success running 2 nuts on the frozen stud and locking the nuts to try and loosen the stud. Or at least work the stud to loosen the corrosion. I'm also considering drilling 2 holes into the anode mount casing perpendicular to the stud hole and shooting some penetrating oil in on both sides. What do I have to lose. I can close up the holes with JB weld. any thoughts?

 

[Trophyman2]

Re: Lower Unit removal - 120hp Force '96

I thought I would close this thread with the results. Rear stud completly siezed with corrosion. Drilling small holes perpendicular to the stud allowed penetrating oil to seep in. After hours of prying, heating, more penetrating oil I was able to open the gap to about 1/2". That allowed me to move the lower unit up and down, each time gaining space till it finally gave way. Impellor kit is installed, JB weld applied to the broken casting. Tomorrow I carefull fill the small holes with JB weld and I will be ready to install. Thanks to those who offered advice. Till next time.