Can't Remove Lever Assembly

[scski]

I have taken the trim panel off, but the screws holding the shifter/throttle/trim lever assembly in are locked down tight.

I have broken 2 impact driver bits from 2 different sets, using the correct bit. Sprayed penetrating oil first, but I don't think it can get under the plastic.

This boat has been in saltwater at some point and I have had trouble with a lot of bolts.

Any ideas?

 

[CaptSteve]

I had the same problem. The issue is that the screws are Stainless Steel and the plate is aluminum. What you have is called galling. The screws are welded to the plate from galvanic action from the salt water. The only way I got them out was to drill them out, run a thread chaser in the hole and then use new stainless screws with anti-sieze on them. If I remember correctly, they are 10mm.

 

[scski]

Thanks, by the time the third impact bit broke, I had 3 of them out. Got another bit and the final one's head stripped so I drilled the head out.

I think I'll try drilling the last one out all the way in the morning.