Lower Unit Problem

[evrgladesbasser]

Hey everyone I have a Johnson 115. I was trying to change/ check the oil in the lower unit but the screws wont come out. Any suggestions?

[Wayne P.]

Use a proper fitting straight blade screwdriver (fits tight and is as wide as the screw slot). I bought one with a long handle from Sears. Most of the destroyed screw slots are done with an improper sized screw driver.

[Way2slow]

As  mentioned, you need to use a screw driver that fits the width and thickness of the slot.  If they have become too rounded for that, you will first need to get you two new filler screws.  Then get you an impact driver (that's one of those hand held devices that look like a massive screw driver)  and you hit the back of it with a hammer while twisting on it in the direction to loosen the screws.   This will almost always get them out.

Heres a link to one just to make sure you know what I'm talking about http://www.google.com/products/catalog?rlz=1T4ADBR_enUS294US294&q=impact+driver&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=5267091445622833585&ei=HWfrS_XFOMKC8gbp66XnBA&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=image&resnum=7&ved=0CFIQ8gIwBg#

[Nitrofreak]

Are the screws really tight or are the screw slots stripped or both or are the screws just turning and not backing out?

[evrgladesbasser]

The screws are just really tight. The slots are still in good condition at this point, but my fear is messing up the slots. I used a large flathead that fits well but they just wont budge. I considered using an impact but I'm not realy familiar with lower units and don't want to damage it by striking it. At this point it's looking like my only option though. If I keep trying the large screw driver I feel like it's gonna mess up the slots, then my only option would be what??? taping it out, and I know that's a pain in the butt. So are impacts usually used in this situation? Thanks for the help!

[Nitrofreak]

If the screws are in good condition then try this first get the screwdriver in the slot as straight as you can and put as much pressure as you can on the top of the handle and lock a pair of vise grips near the screwdriver handle and twist the screw loose but be careful because some of these screws break loose suddenly and some take quite some pressure to get them to break loose.

IF that does not work which I am pretty sure it will, Then find a small propane torch and warm the area around the screws NOT HOT but warm enough you wont be able to hold your hand there and try repeting the above proceedure.

[fishn hard]

Tap the screwdriver with a hammer dont be scared tap it hard you wont hurt it

[CFFF 1.5]

The screws on my lower unit are always really tight and take some real pressure to get them off. I use a Leatherman with flat head bit at a 90 degree angle. This helps to apply pressure and gives you a lot of turning force. Try it out you might be surprised.