oil drain screw 50 hp merc lower unit

[butcherboy1]

I have the oil drain screw that is being stubborn. the slot is beginning to get damaged form screw driver slippage. I have used penetrating oil to looen but hasn't worked. Nest thing is heating with butane torch, but am leary of heating on the lower unit. Any advice would be appreciated.thanks in advance.

[hiliner]

It seems to come lose very easily with (the drain & level plugs) if you use one of the handheld impact drivers. Do not heat these plugs as there are seals that will melt. The seals should be replaced every time you change oil also.

[Shellback]

3/8" drive hand impact hammer, get one at Sears hardware etc. Don't forget the straight slot bit. One short crisp smack and she's loose.

[yarcraft91]

And then buy some replacement drain screws and a screwdriver that fits the slot in them.

[ffishman]

You cannot use a "regular" screw driver. I use a really large one, and it works just fine.

[went522]

Just need the correct size screw driver. I purchased one specifically for the lower unit, it's about 16" long, large handle and the bit is exactly the right width and thickness to fit snuggly in the slot. Works perfect.

I'll add, the first season I used a "standard" screw driver...not the right size, to short and wimpy handle. One oil change and the plug was ruined, that day was the trip to sears and the dealer for a new plug. Many oil changes later and the plug still looks new...get the right size driver.

BIRDDOG

[Hot Runr Guy]

Just need the correct size screw driver. I purchased one specifically for the lower unit, it's about 16" long, large handle and the bit is exactly the right width and thickness to fit snuggly in the slot. Works perfect.

I'll add, the first season I used a "standard" screw driver...not the right size, to short and wimpy handle. One oil change and the plug was ruined, that day was the trip to sears and the dealer for a new plug. Many oil changes later and the plug still looks new...get the right size driver.

BIRDDOG
and if you can, get a square-shanked one (mine's a Craftsman). This will allow you to put a 3/8" (I think) or adjustable wrench on it to help loosen those tight ones.
HRG

[Suzuki]

There is usually available "lip" on the screwdriver slot. Place your screwdriver at an angle into that lip and wack it with a hammer. Make sure your driving it the correct way. I almost always have to use that approach and its so much easier anyways.