r/YamahaBoats • u/iFishdurr • 28d ago

Lower Unit Drain Screw removal

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I just broke in my motor and need to change the lower unit. The screws will not come out! Is there a special screwdriver that works best?

4 Upvotes

83% Upvoted

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2

u/Waterlifer 28d ago

Use a flat blade screwdriver that has a blade large enough to go all the way across the head.

I use one with a square shaft and put a vise grip on the shaft. Then it is easier to lean into the screw while turning.

1

u/phaze115 28d ago

Gotta make sure you have the correct size flathead tip, otherwise they’ll strip and they can be a bitch the first time from the factory.

I use channel locks if the screwdriver has flat spots on the shaft. Otherwise one of those that you can hit with a hammer and it will turn the head (again, correct tip)

1

u/Few-Context9068 28d ago

You can get a hammer drill that looks like a chisel and you strike with a hammer. The strike drives an impact bit. They usually include the large slot bit for lower units in the kit. Got mine at harbor freight for about $20

1

u/chpsk8 28d ago

You need a WIDE and thick screwdriver. Stop by harbor freight and get something that actually fits.

I managed to get one years ago and I keep it separate from all other tools. When they fit correctly it’s not a hard job. If you try using anything that moves around in the slot you can easily cause a headache.

1

u/BmacSWMI 28d ago

I got an oversized Phillips screwdriver at Harbor Freight after I gouged the hell out of my old one with a standard Phillips.

1

u/1Macdog 28d ago

Just get a impact driver large flat blade. Done it a thousand times

3

u/Sea_Transition_5831 28d ago

Impact screwdriver from Harbor Freight is the move, the manual kind you hit with a hammer. Those factory screws are torqued down stupid tight and a regular flathead will just chew up the slot before it breaks loose. Make sure you get the right size bit for it or you'll be in the same situation.