Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

[lenny2113]

There is a 3/8" alien screw that holds a zinc anode. I can't get it to turn with a 3/8" wrench because the wrench fitting is bad.<br />My objective is to drop lower unit.<br /><br />What are my options? can I turn zinc? Drill from the top?<br />Please share your experience. <br /><br />Thanks.

 

[snapperbait]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

I take it that the socket in the allen screw is rounded out... <br /><br />Penetrating oil may help to loosen the bolt, sure can't hurt... Perhaps a few choice blows with a hammer and impact driver with the right socket may also help loosen it... Also, try to put some valve grinding compound (helps the wrench grip) in the socket or on the wrench and try turning it then..<br /><br />Drill? yeah, carefully...

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

You can try to turn the fin and if it moves just hope the stud head doesent move .I use a torx attachment to my rachet.I bought a set of sockets with the torx heads on them a few years ago and I have had a few occasions to use them .This worked great for me.Charlie

 

[wildman]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

Heres some other great info... <br /><br /> web page <br /><br />Then look about 1/2 way down the bottom of this forumn to the EXACT same question asked 3 days ago

 

[wildman]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

Sorry Here I will even help you out <br /><br /> web page

 

[MrBill]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

I have had this problem a few times...here's a couple ideas, one involves making a tool yourself.<br /><br />1. Plumbers tool - a tapered 4 or 6 sided "L" shaped tool used for faucets, I don't know the name of this tool but they're inexpensive $4 to 5. Place into Allen and tap to grip, it should seat well.<br /><br />2. From a larger Allen wrench, grind each side of the hex so that you end up with a tapered six-sided Allen that comes close to a point. Grind off point if tool bottoms out. Bang into place tight and turn. Cost - about $2.<br /><br />I have always had good success fabricating inexpensive tools like this. Hope this helps....

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

I will try some of the things described here.<br />I also thought about making a cut with a small chisel to make the flat screw driver fit. Once the cut is deep enough, turn the screw with a screw driver. <br />If it will not work maybe I will put epoxy on the allen wrench and glue it to the screw. Once it hardens turn loose...<br />I hope something works. <br /><br />WIldMan,<br />I have done a search before posting this question. "trim tab" was my search criteria. The post you've mentioned did not come up as the result of search.<br />Sorry for double post. <br /> <br />Thanks for your suggestions all.

 

[MrBill]

Re: Trim tab Alien screw (Mercruiser Alpha 1)

If all else fails, attack the trim tab carefully to break it apart, then cut it off at or near the lower housing. Use a drill make holes in it. Trim tabs only cost $6...don't damage the housing over a six dollar tab.