Volvo Penta Stern Drive: how to remove a stuck drain screw?

Question

I'm winterizing the stern drive. The silver screw on the left side of the unit is really difficult to remove. Any special tools or tricks required?

Answer 1

First you can try an impact driver. You can get it at most auto stores. You use it with a hammer. If that does not work you can also try heat. You do not heat the screw, but the surrounding area. The key to heating is to use alot of heat quickly, not slowly. You want to heat the surrounding area quickly to expand it while not heating the screw and expanding that. Try heating , and then you can try either the impact driver again or get the biggest screwdriver you can that fits the screw and use a wrench (if it has a hex shape on the shaft) or a large pair of vice grips or even a pipe wrench to turn the screwdriver. Make sure you are turning it the correct way (counter clockwise while looking at it) . I would try all of these methods before resorting to drilling it out.

Answer 2

Mark T got you covered (give him a thumbs up). These are a "Booger" when they stuck. Just take your time and be sure things lined up when using the impact driver. You not want to mess up what slot you do have. When/if you get this out. Go to the Auto-Parts store and buy some Anti-Seeze. It stuff you use on Spark Plugs mostly, but, may keep the plug from sticking next time. It not take much; "Just a little dab will do you". I bought a large bottle. It about 3 inches high and less than $10. Should last a lifetime. I use it on all my spark plugs when changing and a few other things.

Answer 3

Spray the heck out of it with PB Blaster, Penetrating Fluid. This is available at any auto store, usually near the wd40. Heat could work too.