Getting my plug out

[Jeff 0]

OK, the marina that launches and retrieves my boat over-tightened my plug and now it won't budge. Clearly if I crank on it, it will just strip and be useless. My next thought was to take the screws out, pry it off, and replace it. However, that adhesive was far stronger than I thought it and I don't want to damage the gelcoat by ripping it off.

 

So, what is my next step? How do I replace the plug without damaging the gel coat? The bilge needs to be dried/cleaned soon. Thanks!!!

[midwest cruiser 0]

Jeff, what did they use to tighten it, an impact wrench set on high? If they overtightened the drain plug, they should loosen it for you. Any damage incurred will be on their nickel. The plug itself has a pretty sturdy head so, using a crescent wrench should be sufficient. But if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, I'd insist the marina do it for you.

[Jeff 0]

Thanks midwest. I tried cranking on it with a crescent wrench and it serioulsy would not budge. All that kept happening was the wrench slipping and "rounding" off the edges. I asked the marina to do it, but technically they are not supposed to be taking the plug in and out unless I specifically ask in writing. The main problem is that the guy who took care of launching/retrieving/parking my boat for years died last summer and now a new guy is doing it. Well, the new guy does the "bare minimum". I will keep trying. Thanks.

[The MOST 0]

The plug head is a 9/16". Get yourself a heavy duty 9/16" wrench with as long a handle on it as you can find (for leverage). Spray the plug first with any lubricating product specifically made for helping loosen tight fittings. There's several out there on the market. Bear down!

 

I am certain you will be able to remove it.

 

If that doesn't work use a long handled pair of vise grips...one thing about a crescent wrench is they have a little bit of play in them and can open up when alot of pressure is applied. That caused them to chew up the edges of the plug.

 

[oumills 0]

The plug head is a 9/16". Get yourself a heavy duty 9/16" wrench with as long a handle on it as you can find (for leverage). Spray the plug first with any lubricating product specifically made for helping loosen tight fittings. There's several out there on the market. Bear down!

 

I am certain you will be able to remove it.

 

If that doesn't work use a long handled pair of vise grips...one thing about a crescent wrench is they have a little bit of play in them and can open up when alot of pressure is applied. That caused them to chew up the edges of the plug.

 

Good suggestion. I wouldn't use a crescent wrench. I'd use the 9/16" or a smaller pipe wrench. The 9/16" wrench is your best bet. Also, tap on the plug w/ a small hammer in addition to spraying it with WD-40 or something similiar. This will sometimes help break it loose. I'm not saying hit it w/ a 5lb sledge, just tap it. Use a cheater pipe if you have small wrench.

[Jeff 0]

The plug head is a 9/16". Get yourself a heavy duty 9/16" wrench with as long a handle on it as you can find (for leverage). Spray the plug first with any lubricating product specifically made for helping loosen tight fittings. There's several out there on the market. Bear down!

 

I am certain you will be able to remove it.

 

If that doesn't work use a long handled pair of vise grips...one thing about a crescent wrench is they have a little bit of play in them and can open up when alot of pressure is applied. That caused them to chew up the edges of the plug.

 

Thanks admin, I will give it a shot. I will put all my 220# behind it and hopefully not crush my knuckles!!!