The Ballad Exchange

Hi all,

I need to replace the 2 sealing rings inside the waterpump house on my Md6B. The waterhouse is mounted with 2 bolts. The upper one was easy to remove, but the one below I haven't been able to release. The bolt seem to be difficult to get a grip on, because of little space and because of wear and tear on the bolt. Any hints on what tools to use that make it easier to relase the bolt?

Here's some pictures: https://goo.gl/photos/1pLAaTjHiS1Puuve7
And the sealing rings to replace are no. 13 from this one: https://www.marinepartseurope.com/en/vo ... 13639.aspx

Cheers
Frank

Hello Frank,

It looks like you have two problems there, one being the rust, and the other is the bolt being rounded off/worn.

To deal with the rust, first I'd give it a soak in a couple of days in a penetrating oil like Plus Gas (WD40, contrary to popular belief, isn't as effective as 'proper' penetrating oil). The next thing I would try is impact to break any bond the rust is making - if you have an impact wrench (and you can get it in there), that's great (do beware though, last thing you want to do is snap the bolt off!). Failing that, a punch and hammer will do just fine. Also look at freeze Penetrants (such as Loctite 8040 Freeze And Release) and consider heat too - the shrinking and expanding created by each will lesson the bond and create micro fractures in any rust.

So now how to get a grip on the rounded off head? Clearly always use a socket where you can, and if you can get a socket on it still, then persevere so long as it is the correct fit with no play. If you can still get no purchase with your socket, there are two options immediately, one is the ever useful mulgrips (or 'locking pliers', as seen here http://www.agmpartscomponents.co.uk/sea ... pin-nosed/) to grip the head. If this fails, get some bolt grip removers that will 'lock' onto your bolt regardless of whether it is rounded off (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Irwin-Bolt-Grip-Remover-394001).

Good luck!! Let us know how you get on...!

Mark

Hi Mark,

thanks for your suggestion. I think I'll try a mulgrips for starters and see. I just need to find one small enough to fit in the small area around the waterpump.

I'll get back once (hopefully) done.

Frank

Problem solved

I sprayed a good bunch of similar to WD40 around and in the bolt area. Then tried shortly after with no luck, even using a tool like this: https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=htt ... lg.jpg&f=1

Even shouting at the boat didn't do the trick. But waiting a couple of days did seem to make the rust to move, so when trying with a six point wrench it just came of.

So just in time for this upcoming weekend where the weather seems to be perfect for a island-trip.

Thanks
Frank

Well done Frank! Its a good feeling when something goes your way. A good soak in penetrating oil can do wonders! I might consider replacing those bolts now mind you .

I wish I was in a position to go for a sail, so I am envious! Enjoy your trip and report back how it goes.

All the best,

Mark